Tommy Fleetwood is relishing a chance to turn childhood dreams into reality at The Open on Royal Birkdale, his hometown course. The world No 9 aims to become the first English champion since Sir Nick Faldo, recalling sneaking onto the links with his father as a boy. Though he missed the cut in 2017, Fleetwood has risen, featuring in four Ryder Cups, finishing runner‑up twice in majors and securing a PGA Tour win at the Tour Championship.

He’s been solid lately, finishing no worse than 14th in his last five global starts, and fans have embraced him with a mural at Southport & Birkdale Sports Club and local crochet tributes. “It’s an absolute dream to play here in my hometown with this support,” he said, adding that the home crowd is positive fuel. Fleetwood reflects on past memories at Birkdale and Royal Liverpool, noting seven top‑five major finishes, including a runner‑up in 2019, but still seeks that elusive major win.

Sky Sports will broadcast the event live, with coverage starting at 6:30 am on Thursday and extended feeds on Sky Sports+ and the Sky Sports App throughout the weekend.