Jackson Suber Leads British Open After Stunning First Round

Jackson Suber grabbed the overnight lead at Royal Birkdale with a 5‑under 65, edging out the field by a single shot. The 26‑year‑old, a PGA Tour newcomer without a victory and new to Europe, produced the surprise performance that set the pace for the final major of the season. His early tee time on Friday will set the tone as a packed field looks to challenge his advantage.

Ryan Young is on the scene for this live update as the action unfolds at Royal Birkdale. The early groups will give us our first clues about who can challenge Suber’s lead, and the conditions look ideal for a full day of golf. With clear skies expected, fans can expect an entertaining afternoon of competition.

Also making noise are Sungjae Im and Daniel Brown, both at 4‑under, while Bryson DeChambeau sits a stroke further back at 3‑under. DeChambeau, who had yet to record a sub‑par round at a major in 2026, finally broke through on Thursday and will tee off later in the day. Scottie Scheffler remains in the mix at 2‑under, though Rory McIlroy fell to 2‑over after a 72 and faces an uphill battle to stay alive.

Who’s Behind Suber?

A solid group trails the leader, led by Im and Brown at 4‑under. DeChambeau’s 3‑under puts him right in the thick of the competition, while Scheffler’s 2‑under keeps him within striking distance. Notable early pairings include Cameron Young, Wyndham Clark and Ludvig Åberg, as well as Xander Schauffele, Matt Fitzpatrick, Justin Thomas, Alex Noren, Jason Day, Tyrrell Hatton, Jordan Spieth, Tommy Fleetwood, Jon Rahm, Brian Harman, Si Woo Kim and Nick Taylor.

Key Friday Tee Times

All times ET:
2:30 a.m.: Sami Valimaki, Shaun Norris, Jackson Suber
4:58 a.m.: Cameron Young, Wyndham Clark, Ludvig Åberg
5:09 a.m.: Rory McIlroy, Xander Schauffele, Matt Fitzpatrick
9:53 a.m.: Justin Thomas, Alex Noren, Jason Day
10:04 a.m.: Scottie Scheffler, Tyrrell Hatton, Bryson DeChambeau
10:15 a.m.: Jordan Spieth, Tommy Fleetwood, Jon Rahm
10:26 a.m.: Brian Harman, Si Woo Kim, Nick Taylor

How to Watch the British Open

Friday, July 17
Peacock: 1:30 a.m. – 4:00 a.m. ET
USA Network: 4:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. ET

Follow the second round action with Yahoo Sports as the competition heats up under clear skies.