The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale is set to feature firm and fast conditions, a departure from the wind and rain that have defined the historic links course in recent years. Players are anticipating a unique test as the sun-baked fairways and thinner rough offer a different strategic challenge.
Recent Opens at Royal Birkdale have seen dramatic weather impacts. In 2017, play was briefly suspended due to high winds and heavy rain. The 2008 championship was largely dominated by inclement weather, with Padraig Harrington winning at three over par.
This year, however, the course is described as "as linksy as links gets" by 2014 champion Rory McIlroy. He noted that the course is significantly drier than during his recent practice rounds, with the fescue rough thinner due to the weather. "It's not quite as green, the rough isn't quite as juicy," McIlroy told BBC Sport. "It's still long, the fescue, but it's a little thinner because of the weather we've had."
The "burnt out" rough, a result of the prevailing sunny weather, is leading some players, including McIlroy, to consider a more aggressive approach. "I think I can play the course a little more aggressively than I could, so I'm excited by that possibility, but it's a great test," McIlroy added. He also commented on course alterations, suggesting they will contribute to a "great golf tournament that tests all aspects of the game."
Scottie Scheffler also acknowledged the unusual conditions, with both players anticipating that "weird stuff is going to happen" given the firm and fiery nature of the course. The expectation is that the unique conditions will require adjustments in strategy and execution from the world's top golfers.