Okay, forget what you heard about Royal Birkdale being "calm" this week, because after Round 1 of The 154th Open Championship, that course is already proving to be a beast! Unheralded American Jackson Suber just shocked everyone, grabbing the lead at 5-under par after dropping an incredible eagle on the 17th hole.
Royal Birkdale Is NO Easy Walk, No Matter the Wind
Before the tournament, everyone was wondering if Birkdale's firm, fast conditions would be enough of a test without the usual brutal winds. Well, after day one, there's zero doubt it's a championship course. Only 24 of the 156 players in the field even finished under par! That's how tough it was out there. But here's the kicker: the morning starters caught a massive break. Nine of the 12 guys at 3-under or better teed off early, before that afternoon breeze really picked up. Daniel Brown and Sungjae Im both capitalized, firing off 4-under 66s. Then you've got Robert MacIntyre and Bryson DeChambeau, who each came in with 3-under 67s. Those guys are right in the mix, no question.Big Names Are Already Playing Catch-Up
You know who *didn't* have an easy day? Some of the biggest names in golf. World No. 1 and defending champ Scottie Scheffler started hot, birdieing four of his first six holes, looking like he was going to run away with it. Then the momentum just vanished, and he played his last 12 holes two over, finishing at a 68, three shots off the lead. England’s own Tommy Fleetwood scratched out a 1-under 69 after an uneven start. He's still in it, but it wasn't pretty. Even more shocking, Masters champion Rory McIlroy and betting favorite Matt Fitzpatrick both limped in with 2-over 72s. For McIlroy, his ball-striking was fine, but his putter was a nightmare, missing short ones all day. And Jordan Spieth, who lifted the Claret Jug here last time Royal Birkdale hosted The Open? He signed for a 3-over 73 after an uncharacteristically cold day on the greens. All those guys are playing catch-up big time heading into Friday. So, what's Friday looking like? The early birds might get the worm again. The forecast says calmer conditions in the morning before the wind really cranks up later in the day. If that holds, expect the leaderboard to get even more crowded. One low round could absolutely flip this whole championship on its head at Royal Birkdale. You can't miss it!This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.