The 154th Open Championship is set to be a thrilling event, with some of the biggest names in golf teeing off at Royal Birkdale. The R&A has strategically paired up some of the most prominent players, creating some intriguing matchups that will undoubtedly captivate golf enthusiasts worldwide.
One of the most anticipated pairings is Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, who will be playing alongside two-time U.S. Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and Tyrrell Hatton. This group will tee off at 9:58 a.m. local time on Thursday, providing an early-morning spectacle for golf fans. The interesting subplot here is the current form of both players. Scheffler, who just missed the cut at the Scottish Open, is looking to defend the Claret Jug after his dominant victory at Royal Portrush last year. DeChambeau, on the other hand, has struggled in the 2026 majors, missing the cut at the Masters, PGA Championship, and U.S. Open. The pressure of playing with Scheffler adds an extra layer of intrigue to DeChambeau's performance.
In another marquee grouping, Rory McIlroy, the six-time major champion and world No. 2, will be paired with Xander Schauffele, the 2024 PGA Championship and Open Championship winner, and Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 U.S. Open champion. McIlroy, who completed the career Grand Slam at the 2025 Masters, will begin his quest for a second Open Championship alongside these major champions. McIlroy's strong form into the week, including a win at the Masters and four top-10 finishes, makes this pairing even more exciting. The crowd will undoubtedly root for McIlroy, but Fitzpatrick's presence adds a home-nation angle, making this group a must-watch.
The R&A has also decided to split the groups between the morning and afternoon waves, ensuring that Scheffler and McIlroy will be on the course at different times. This strategic move adds another layer of complexity to the tournament, as it creates a sense of anticipation and uncertainty about the players' performances.
Other notable pairings include Chris Gotterup, who is tied with Fitzpatrick for the PGA Tour lead, playing with Sam Burns and Adam Scott. Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka will also get a major-heavy draw alongside former Open Champion Shane Lowry and Aaron Rai, the reigning PGA Championship winner. Jon Rahm, Tommy Fleetwood, and Jordan Spieth are together in another loaded trio, while Justin Thomas, Alex Noren, and Jason Day bring plenty of experience in the group immediately before Scheffler's tee time.
Royal Birkdale is hosting The Open for the first time since Jordan Spieth's dramatic victory in 2017, and with favorable weather expected for the opening rounds, fans should get an immediate look at many of the tournament favorites. The complete list of first- and second-round tee times provides a comprehensive overview of the tournament's schedule, ensuring that golf enthusiasts can keep track of their favorite players' progress throughout the event.
In conclusion, the 154th Open Championship promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with some of the biggest names in golf teeing off at Royal Birkdale. The strategic pairings and the anticipation surrounding the players' performances will undoubtedly make this event a must-watch for golf fans worldwide.
