The Open: Rory McIlroy backs Tommy Fleetwood to handle pressure and expectation of hometown major at Royal Birkdale
World Cup 2026
Tommy Fleetwood is looking to become the first Englishman to win The Open since 1992 at Royal Birkdale which is just minutes from where he grew up; Rory McIlroy missed the cut in his hometown major in 2019 before ending tied-seventh last year; watch all four rounds live on Sky Sports Golf
Wednesday 15 July 2026 12:57, UK
Rory McIlroy has backed Tommy Fleetwood to avoid “falling into the trap” like he did when trying to handle the pressure of playing in The Open in his hometown.
Match Details
Fleetwood will be the fans’ favourite this week in front of record crowds at Royal Birkdale, the course just minutes from where he grew up in Southport and the venue where he famously snuck in to play as a child.
The Englishman failed to contend when the tournament was last held there in 2017, battling to make the cut after an opening-round 76 and finishing 13 strokes behind champion Jordan Spieth, but is among those expected to challenge for major victory this time.
– The Open build-up LIVE! Latest news from Royal Birkdale
Tournament Impact
– When is The Open on Sky? Key TV times
– The Open: Latest headlines, news and highlights
– Get Sky Sports or stream golf with no contract
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