Golf

2026 Open Championship: Expert Picks Royal Birkdale

By Alex Turner •

Expert Analysis and Predictions

Scottie Scheffler aims for a repeat victory at The Open Championship. The prestigious golf tournament will be held at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England. The event is scheduled from July 16-19, 2026. Scheffler won last year's championship by a significant margin of four strokes.

He defeated Harris English in the previous competition. Scheffler recently missed the cut at the Scottish Open. He is now focused on securing consecutive Open Championship titles. The challenging Royal Birkdale course awaits the world's top golfers.

SportsLine golf expert David Bearman has released his predictions for the 2026 Open Championship. Bearman's picks are based on extensive analysis of player form and course history. He has identified key contenders and potential dark horses.

Who is the Favorite to Win?

Bearman is notably avoiding Bryson DeChambeau in his selections. This decision suggests concerns about DeChambeau's current performance or suitability for Royal Birkdale. The expert's insights offer valuable guidance for bettors and fans alike. His focus remains on players with a proven track record in major championships.

Scheffler is widely considered a top contender. His dominant performance last year solidifies his status. However, the unpredictable nature of links golf presents challenges. Other elite players will be vying for the Claret Jug.

Bearman's specific recommendations will be detailed soon. His strategy often involves identifying value bets. These are players who might be underestimated but have a strong chance of success. The competition at Royal Birkdale promises to be fierce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the venue for the 2026 Open Championship? The 2026 Open Championship will take place at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England. This historic course is known for its challenging links layout.

Who won the previous Open Championship? Scottie Scheffler won the most recent Open Championship. He secured victory by four strokes over Harris English.

When will the 2026 Open Championship be held? The tournament is scheduled to run from July 16-19, 2026. Golf fans can look forward to a thrilling four days of competition.