Jackson Suber, a 26-year-old making his European and links golf debut, astonishingly leads the 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale after a first-round 5-under 65. He holds a one-stroke advantage over Dan Brown and Sungjae Im.

Suber, who had only played 27 holes of links golf prior to the tournament, adapted quickly, carding an eagle on the 17th hole. He credits recent strong play, mental preparation, and trusting his caddie, Greyson Porter.

In other notable performances, Bryson De Chambeau bounced back from recent major struggles with a 3-under 67, placing him in a tie for fourth. Scottie Scheffler also started strongly, briefly holding the lead before finishing at 2-under 68. Rory McIlroy endured a difficult opening round, finishing at 2-over par, struggling particularly with his putting and short game.