The 152nd British Open has officially begun at Royal Troon, with a familiar face kicking things off. American Justin Leonard, the 1997 Open champion, struck the opening tee shot under slightly overcast skies. He was joined by fellow American Todd Hamilton, the 2004 champion at this very course, and Briton Jack McDonald.
The eyes of the golfing world are on several other notable players throughout the day. Bryson DeChambeau, fresh off his US Open victory last month, will start his first round at 0847 GMT (1417 IST) alongside young Swedish star Ludvig Aberg, currently ranked fourth in the world.
Another player looking to make a splash is world number two Rory McIlroy, who is aiming for his fifth major title and his first in a decade. He tees off at 0909 GMT (1439 IST).
Rounding out the day’s big names are the late starters, including world number one Scottie Scheffler. He’ll be joined by fellow Americans Jordan Spieth, the 2017 Open champion, and Cameron Young.
The stage is set for a thrilling week of golf at Royal Troon. With a strong field of competitors and the always-unpredictable nature of links golf, anything can happen. Stay tuned for exciting updates and the eventual crowning of the new British Open champion.
