Who is Jackson Suber?

Jackson Suber is a 26-year-old American golfer who unexpectedly took the lead at The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale in his first visit to Europe.

How did Jackson Suber prepare for Royal Birkdale?

Suber prepared for The Open Championship by watching YouTube videos of Royal Birkdale, as he had never played the course or any links golf in Europe before.

What was Rory McIlroy's first-round score at The Open Championship?

Rory McIlroy finished his first round at The Open Championship at +2.

MajorsBy the GolfOdds Editorial TeamJul 28, 2026, 5:00 PM ET

Jackson Suber Leads Open Championship After European Debut

In his first visit to Europe and with minimal links golf experience, Jackson Suber posted a 5-under par to take a surprising one-stroke lead at Royal Birkdale.

Jackson Suber has taken a surprising one-stroke lead at The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, carding an impressive 5-under par in his opening round. The 26-year-old American's performance is particularly notable given that he had never traveled to Europe before this week and had only played 27 holes of links golf prior to the tournament, all during a practice round at Royal Birkdale on Monday.

Suber, playing in just his third major championship, prepared for the historic course by watching YouTube videos. He found that Royal Birkdale's layout aligns well with his strengths. "I've been hitting the driver well, and I feel like I'm a good iron player," Suber stated. He added that the course's design, featuring many long irons into the holes and requiring precise chipping off tight lies, suits his game.

Despite sunny conditions, Royal Birkdale proved challenging for many in the 156-player field, with crisping greens and demanding rough. While Suber navigated these elements effectively, other prominent players faced difficulties. Rory McIlroy, for instance, finished his round at +2, struggling throughout the afternoon. McIlroy is currently listed at +750 (FanDuel).

Suber's ability to conquer the course in a way that eluded many more experienced players has positioned him at the top of the leaderboard. His current price to win The Open Championship is +7000 (FanDuel), reflecting the unexpected nature of his strong start.

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FAQ

Who is Jackson Suber?: Jackson Suber is a 26-year-old American golfer who unexpectedly took the lead at The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale in his first visit to Europe.
How did Jackson Suber prepare for Royal Birkdale?: Suber prepared for The Open Championship by watching YouTube videos of Royal Birkdale, as he had never played the course or any links golf in Europe before.
What was Rory McIlroy's first-round score at The Open Championship?: Rory McIlroy finished his first round at The Open Championship at +2.