Marcus Plunkett Ready for British Open Debut

Marcus Plunkett, a Nease High School and Army West Point graduate, has earned his first major‑championship spot at the British Open. After losing his Korn Ferry Tour status last season, he switched to the Asian Tour and quickly established himself with five top‑15 finishes in just seven starts. Plunkett’s breakout moment came at Dundonald Links, where he tied for fourth with rounds of 69 and 72, edging out a five‑way playoff for the final qualifying position.

Beyond the notable finish, Plunkett’s career path has been anything but conventional. He served five years as a transportation officer in South Korea, Afghanistan and Colorado before turning professional in 2021. The former Army officer captured the Dakotas Tour money list, made eight of 20 starts on the Korn Ferry Tour last year and boasts a tie for ninth at the Ascendant. A weather‑shortened qualifier in Dothan, Alabama, cost him a chance to advance to Q School final stage, prompting his move abroad.

Currently 20th on the Asian Tour Order of Merit with eight tournaments remaining, Plunkett tees off at Royal Birkdale alongside Naoyuki Katoaka of Japan and Baard Bjoernevik Skogen of Norway at 11:10 a.m. EDT. The three‑time Army graduate is now focused on making his impact felt on the global stage. His selection adds another local talent to the Open field, joining a roster that includes area golfers such as Ludvig Åberg, Bud Cauley and J.T. Poston.

Senior Champion Eyes The Players Return

Zach Johnson is set to accept the exemption that follows a Senior Players Championship win, signaling his intent to return to The Players. The St. Simons Island resident captured the title by six shots over Boo Weekley at Firestone Country Club, his third Champions Tour victory. Johnson, who has earned more than $1.9 million and sits second behind Stewart Cink on the money list, praised architect Pete Dye and the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass.

Family ties also fuel Johnson’s desire to compete in the event. His wife, Kim, hails from Fernandina Beach, and she shares his love for the tournament. “I’ll check with my wife, but she loves it too,” Johnson said, highlighting a personal connection to the Jacksonville area. He has debuted at The Players 17 times, posting two top‑10 finishes, with his best showing a 2012 tie for second behind Matt Kuchar.

Since his rookie season on the PGA Tour Champions, Johnson has not finished outside the top‑10 in nine starts, boasting five consecutive top‑five results. His recent form underscores a veteran’s resurgence and adds depth to a field that includes senior stalwarts and rising stars. The momentum heading into the Players could cement his status among the tour’s elite.

Royal Birkdale’s Deep Veteran Field

The British Open at Royal Birkdale features a veteran‑laden field with proven course experts. Forty‑one players who competed in the 2017 Open return, including champion Jordan Spieth and top‑10 finishers Haotong Li (third), Rory McIlroy (fourth), Brooks Koepka (sixth), Alex Noren and Matthew Southgate. Their experience at the historic links ensures a high‑level competition.

Past champions also populate the lineup, echoing the venue’s rich history. The 2008 winner, Padraig Harrington, along with Henrik Stenson (third) and Adam Scott (16th) are among those who have excelled here. Earlier editions saw Justin Rose capture fourth place in 1998, while David Duval placed 11th and Stewart Cink finished 66th. The deep talent pool makes Royal Birkdale a strong contender for another memorable major.

Beyond the established stars, the field includes up-and‑coming players eager to make their mark. Marcus Plunkett joins competitors such as Ludvig Åberg, Bud Cauley, Harris English, Brian Harman, Billy Horschel, Keith Mitchell, Andrew Novak, J.T. Poston, Aaron Rai, Cameron Smith and Michael Thorbjornsen. Their collective experience ensures that the Open will be contested by golfers with diverse styles and proven links play.

PGA Tour Schedule & Local Golfers

The Open Championship runs July 16‑19 at Royal Birkdale, offering a $17 million purse with $3.1 million and 750 FedEx Cup points for the winner. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler returns to defend his title, while television coverage spans Peacock, USA Network and NBC across early morning and primetime slots.

Local golfers are well represented in the field, highlighting regional talent. Area players include Ludvig Åberg, Bud Cauley, David Duval, Harris English, Brian Harman, Billy Horschel, Keith Mitchell, Andrew Novak, Marcus Plunkett, J.T. Poston, Aaron Rai, Cameron Smith and Michael Thorbjornsen. Their participation adds excitement for fans across the Jacksonville area.

Concurrent action also unfolds at the Corales Puntacana Championship, a $4 million event with $720 000 and 300 FedEx Cup points on the line. Garrick Higgo enters as defending champion, and the tournament is broadcast on Golf Channel. Regional competitors such as Chandler Blanchet, Adrien Dumont de Chassart, Lanto Griffin, Patton Kizzire, Paul Pederson, Alejandro Tosti and Danny Walker bring additional local flavor to the circuit.