Introduction
The Open Championship, sometimes referred to as the British Open, is the oldest and most prestigious of the four majors. The 153rd edition of this prestigious championship took place at the Royal Portrush Golf Club in Northern Ireland from July 17–20, 2025.
This was the third time the Open had returned to Portrush, having previously hosted it in 1951 and 2019. The fact that the winner will take home $3.1 million of the $17 million prize pool is evidence of the tournament’s extravagant nature.
The Dunluce Links Course at Royal Portrush, which has a par of 71 and is approximately 7,381 yards long, is well-known for its wild links terrain and stunning Atlantic views. Among its most infamous holes is “Calamity Corner,” , is a par-3 that has scared even the most experienced players and thrilled fans.
More about The open 2025?
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🌟 Favorites & Top Players
Scottie Scheffler (number one in the world)
At The Open 2025, Scheffler played brilliantly, hitting rounds of 64 (-7), 68, 67, and 67 to finish -14 under par. He had a commanding four-shot lead going into the final round.
Scheffler, who has already won the 2025 PGA Championship and two Masters titles in 2022 and 2024, is getting closer to earning a career Grand Slam, something only greats like Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player have done.
Scheffler was the overwhelming favorite to win the Claret Jug at one point, when his odds of winning fell as low as -700 to -750.
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The world number two, Rory McIlroy
McIlroy was eager to impress his home audience in Northern Ireland after winning the 2024 Masters and completing his career Grand Slam.
He scored an incredible 66 (-5) in Round 3 to drop to -8 under, but he was still six shots behind Scheffler. According to golf commentators, McIlroy might seriously jeopardize Scheffler’s chances of winning the championship if he can continue to improve both his technical skill and mental toughness.
Matt Fitzpatrick _________________________________,
With a strong and consistent effort, Fitzpatrick finished Round 3 at -9 under, keeping him in the running for the final day.
Fitzpatrick is determined to become the first English champion of The Open since Sir Nick Faldo in 1992, and his wife Katherine is supporting him from the sidelines.
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Haotong Li
Haotong Li of China also attracted attention with his aggressive style of play. By the completion of Round 3, he was only four strokes behind Scheffler at -10 under.
Li might become the first Chinese golfer to win a major, which would be a momentous milestone in golf history, if he succeeds.
Other Prominent Applicants
• The reigning champion, Xander Schauffele, got off to a great start but retreated in the subsequent rounds.
Tyrell Hatton and Jon Rahm were considered dark horses. They were formidable because to Rahm’s excellent form and Hatton’s skill on links courses. As potential surprises who might make a comeback, former champions Brooks Koepka, Tommy Fleetwood, Sergio Garcia, and Justin Thomas all entered.
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⛳ Each Round’s Recap
• Rounds 1 and 2: Scheffler led with an outstanding 64 to start the day, and he gained momentum in a steady second round.
• Round 3: Scheffler finished at -14 under with another 67, ahead of McIlroy at -8 under and Fitzpatrick at -9 under.
• Round 4 (Final): At 9:30 AM ET, Scheffler and Li will take the field in the last group. McIlroy as well as
Fitzpatrick will begin at 9:20 AM ET, just ahead of them.
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🌦️ The Influence of the Weather
The Open is frequently determined by the weather, but Portrush’s forecasts have been rather moderate. The circumstances have been steady and equitable, adding exactly the proper amount of difficulty, even though they are not very beneficial.
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🔝 Who Has the Advantage?
Scottie Scheffler is still the clear favorite to win because: • He has never lost a lead after 54 holes in a major tournament; • The odds are stacked in his favor; and • He has a four-shot lead, which gives him psychological leverage and breathing room.
Nevertheless, McIlroy benefits from home crowds and his recent success. Li’s spectacular drive and Fitzpatrick’s steady play keep the final day open.
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🏆 Conflict over the Claret Jug
Royal Portrush has a long history; in 2019, Shane Lowry lifted the Claret Jug, and in 2025, it might see another historic conclusion.
The final round on July 20 is sure to be exciting, whether it’s Scheffler’s consistent mastery, McIlroy’s valiant return home, or a last-minute upset from Fitzpatrick or Li.
As history approaches—and possibly the next chapter of a career Grand Slam is written—golfers everywhere will be riveted to their televisions.
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📺 How to View
• United States: NBC and Peacock Premium (subscription @ $7.99/month) offer live coverage.
• UK: Watch on BBC2 and Sky Sports Golf, with R&A TV providing extra coverage.
• Live streams will be available from local sports networks and streaming services in Australia, Canada, and across the world.
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Conclusion
The final round of the Open 2025 is coming up. The focus is on Scottie Scheffler; will he maintain his composure and win the title? Or will McIlroy, Fitzpatrick, or Li pull off a stunning upset?
Whatever happens, Royal Portrush is undoubtedly creating golf history.
