Xander Schauffele delivered an outstanding performance to claim the 152nd British Open at Royal Troon, marking his second major victory of the season. Schauffele surged into the lead with a remarkable stretch of four birdies in six holes, eventually securing the title by two strokes.
The final round saw Schauffele overtaking the relatively unknown South African golfer, Thriston Lawrence, on the back nine. Despite opportunities for several players to challenge for the lead during the wide-open final round, Schauffele’s consistent play and precise iron shots proved decisive. He impressively hit 16 out of 18 greens in regulation, a key factor in his victory.
England’s Justin Rose made an early move in the final round, shooting a solid 4-under 67 to finish in a tie for second place. He was joined by Billy Horschel, who birdied his last three holes to also finish at 7-under. Thriston Lawrence ended in fourth place, three shots behind the leader.
Schauffele’s triumph at the British Open adds to his victory earlier this season at the PGA Championship. With Scottie Scheffler’s win at the Masters and Bryson DeChambeau’s victory at the U.S. Open, American golfers have swept all four major championships this year, a feat last achieved in 1982.
During the closing ceremonies at Royal Troon, Schauffele accepted the Claret Jug, expressing his gratitude to his family, team, course officials, the greens crew, and the R&A. “It’s been quite a journey,” Schauffele remarked. “I feel very honored hearing your name called with ‘Open Champion’ right after. It’s something I’ve dreamt of for a very long time.”
He also extended his thanks to the Scottish fans for their unwavering support. “You guys have been amazing. You guys have made it feel like a second home for me and I can’t wait to come back.”
Schauffele is set to defend his title at the 153rd Open next year at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland. His victory at the British Open makes him only the fourth player this century to win both the PGA and the British Open in the same season, joining the ranks of Tiger Woods (2000 and 2006), Padraig Harrington (2008), and Rory McIlroy (2014).
With his remarkable achievements this season, Schauffele has firmly established himself as one of the top golfers in the world, continuing to build on his already impressive career.