How did Scottie Scheffler start his British Open defense?

Scottie Scheffler began his British Open defense at Royal Birkdale by shooting three under par through his opening nine holes, placing him one shot off the clubhouse lead.

What was Scottie Scheffler's recent performance before the British Open?

Before the British Open, Scottie Scheffler missed the cut at the Scottish Open, ending a streak of 78 consecutive cuts made over four years.

Which other golfer is also performing well early at the British Open?

Bryson DeChambeau is also at three under par through his early holes, matching Scottie Scheffler's score.

MajorsBy the GolfOdds Editorial TeamJul 26, 2026, 5:00 PM ET

Scheffler Starts Strong at British Open, DeChambeau Also in Contention

Scottie Scheffler began his British Open title defense with a solid front nine at Royal Birkdale, positioning himself near the top of the leaderboard.

Scottie Scheffler has made a promising start to his British Open campaign, carding three under par through his opening nine holes at Royal Birkdale. This performance places him just one shot behind the clubhouse leader, marking a significant turnaround from his prior outing at the Scottish Open where his streak of 78 consecutive cuts made came to an end.

The world number one expressed his dislike for missing cuts, though he acknowledged the benefit of extra rest before a major championship. Scheffler's previous victory at Royal Portrush last year demonstrated his ability to excel in links conditions. Despite that success, his year has been marked by a single PGA Tour win in January and an inability to add to his four major titles, leading to what he has described as a frustrating period by his own high standards.

Scheffler's strong start at Royal Birkdale included four birdies across five holes, from the second to the sixth. He then recorded his first dropped shot of the tournament on the seventh hole, bringing him back to three under par. Also at three under par is fellow American Bryson DeChambeau, who is making a solid push early in the tournament.

Looking at current market prices, Scottie Scheffler is listed at +5500 (FanDuel) for the 3M Open. Bryson DeChambeau, meanwhile, is currently priced at +10000 (Bovada) for the UK. Both players are demonstrating early form that could influence their standing in future events.

Compare the odds

3M Open odds →Scottish Open odds →Scottie Scheffler Bryson DeChambeau

FAQ

How did Scottie Scheffler start his British Open defense?: Scottie Scheffler began his British Open defense at Royal Birkdale by shooting three under par through his opening nine holes, placing him one shot off the clubhouse lead.
What was Scottie Scheffler's recent performance before the British Open?: Before the British Open, Scottie Scheffler missed the cut at the Scottish Open, ending a streak of 78 consecutive cuts made over four years.
Which other golfer is also performing well early at the British Open?: Bryson DeChambeau is also at three under par through his early holes, matching Scottie Scheffler's score.