The Claret Jug has a new home after a brilliant week of golf on the Antrim coast. In late July, Royal Portrush provided a spectacular stage for the 153rd Open Championship, culminating in a dominant victory for World Number One Scottie Scheffler and a hugely popular performance from our own Rory McIlroy.
The famous links, hosting for only the third time, was in perfect condition—firm, fast, and with a persistent Atlantic breeze that demanded precision and creativity. It was a true test, and one man passed it with flying colours.
A Masterclass from the World’s Best
From start to finish, Scottie Scheffler put on a clinic in championship golf. The American was a model of consistency, posting four rounds in the 60s—an incredible feat on a course as demanding as Portrush. He navigated the treacherous bunkers and iconic challenges like “Calamity Corner” with a calm that was almost unnerving.
Closing with a final round 68 to finish at 17-under-par, Scheffler won by a commanding four shots. It was his fourth career major and his first Open Championship, cementing his status as the undisputed best player on the planet. It was a flawless, dominant, and thoroughly deserved victory.
A Proud Homecoming for McIlroy
While Scheffler’s name will be engraved on the trophy, the home crowd found their hero in Rory McIlroy. Six years after the disappointment of his missed cut in 2019, McIlroy returned to Portrush and gave the thousands of fans who lined the fairways a performance to cheer about.
Feeding off the incredible support, he was met with applause on every tee and green. He battled his way to a superb tied-6th finish at 10-under-par, a result that erased the painful memories of 2019 and replaced them with a week of high-quality, determined golf.
A Week to Remember
The 153rd Open was a resounding success. It showcased one of the world’s greatest courses and was defined by a worthy champion in Scottie Scheffler and an impressive showing from Rory McIlroy. It was a week where Irish pride was on full display, reminding the world that there is no atmosphere in golf quite like an Open on Irish soil.
