British Open Predictions, Picks & Best Bets 2026: Can Rory McIlroy Win Seventh Major?

The 2026 British Open begins Thursday, July 16, at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England, marking the final major championship of the year. Rory McIlroy, the 2014 Open Champion, is highlighted as a top pick at +850 odds to win his seventh major title overall and second major of the 2026 season. McIlroy comes into the tournament with a T4 finish at Royal Birkdale in 2017 and a T7 finish at the Genesis Scottish Open the previous week.