Belgium’s Thomas Detry set the early clubhouse lead at the 154th British Open on Thursday with a three-under 67 under sunny skies at Royal Birkdale.
Detry, out in the opening group, took advantage of tranquil conditions to card four birdies and just one dropped shot.
World number one Scottie Scheffler, bidding to become the first man since Padraig Harrington in 2008 to retain the title, made a stunning start and was four under after six holes of his opening round.
Scheffler was playing alongside fellow American Bryson DeChambeau who also picked up a couple of early birdies.
Local favourite Tommy Fleetwood attracted large galleries and was one under early in his round.
World number two Rory McIlroy will begin his campaign alongside 2024 champion Xander Schauffele and Matt Fitzpatrick at 3:15 p.m. (1415 GMT).
McIlroy is chasing a seventh major title. His sole Open win came 12 years ago at Royal Liverpool.
Heatwave conditions in the UK have baked the Royal Birkdale course, making the fairways hard and fast.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
