Tommy Fleetwood Opens Strong at Home Royal Birkdale

Tommy Fleetwood got off to a solid start at The Open Championship, held this week at Royal Birkdale in Southport. He carded a one‑under 69 on day one, putting himself in a respectable position for the tournament. Even with a nervous first tee, the atmosphere was buzzing and he praised the home crowd for the special feel of competing in Southport.

Fleetwood’s Opening Round Performance

In his opening round press conference, Fleetwood reflected on how the current event compared to the 2017 Open at the same venue. He explained that the hometown pressure added excitement and anxiety to his game. He also mentioned his caddie Ian Finnis, recalling a candid remark about feeling uneasy on the opening tee.

How the Crowd Boosted Fleetwood

The fans have been a major factor for Fleetwood so far. He admitted that thousands of supporters were present and that their positive energy helped him through a game that was not clicking. Even though he struggled, the crowd’s encouragement made a clear difference and lifted his morale.

Home Talent and Dan Brown’s Surge

2026 has been a disappointing campaign for Fleetwood, with only three top‑five finishes and no PGA Tour victory. He missed the cut at the PGA Championship, adding to the frustration. Playing at home appears to change his outlook, as the emotional boost from the crowd adds a new spark. Royal Birkdale’s galleries are eager for any British winner, not just Fleetwood. The field includes several home players, and Englishman Dan Brown unexpectedly sits atop the leaderboard. Fans’ desire for a local champion adds extra pressure and excitement for the rest of the week.

Read more: Tommy Fleetwood admits he ‘played awful’ in front of home fans at The Open