Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy stand out in star-studded field for British Open

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler will attempt to defend his British Open title at Royal Birkdale this week, which would make him the first back-to-back champion since Padraig Harrington won at Carnoustie in 2007 and Birkdale in 2008. Scheffler, 30, claimed his fourth major with a four-stroke victory at Portrush last year but has not won since the opening event of the 2026 season. Rory McIlroy is also among the favourites, though both players carry form concerns heading into the tournament.