Tommy Fleetwood battled to a one-under-par 69 in the first round of the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, a familiar course where he once hopped the fence as a kid. The Southport native is among the favorites this week, drawing on local knowledge and a deep connection to the hallowed turf.
Tommy Fleetwood's Early Start at Royal Birkdale
Growing up in Southport, Fleetwood learned golf at Southport Municipal, three miles from Birkdale. He later joined Formby Hall, but Royal Birkdale remained an elusive dream. To play there, he would cut along the beach from Southport and hop the fence behind the 5th fairway. “I did it once or twice,” he admitted with a blush. His dad worked in construction, his mum was a hairdresser, and most of his memories of the course are as a patron chasing autographs in 1998.
The 2024 Open Championship: A Battle on the Course
Fleetwood described his opening round as a “battle,” with two bogeys and three birdies. “It wasn’t that easy out there. There’s not really loads of birdie opportunities. One under is a good start to the week,” he said. This is a vast improvement from the six-over he shot in the first round the last time the Open was at Birkdale, when his chances were effectively over by the 18th hole.
Key Takeaways from Fleetwood's Round
- Fleetwood opened with a 69, one under par, placing him in contention.
- He highlighted the difficulty of the course, with limited birdie chances.
- His local roots and familiarity with Birkdale give him a unique edge.
- Fleetwood is widely regarded as one of the nicest guys in golf, with strong fan support.
Comparison: Fleetwood's 2024 vs. 2017 Open at Birkdale
| Year | First Round Score | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 6-over par | Missed cut or far from contention |
| 2024 | 1-under par (69) | In contention, among favorites |
The difference in performance is stark. In 2017, Fleetwood struggled early, but in 2024, he has positioned himself well. “One under is a good start to the week,” he reiterated, showing confidence. His improved ball-striking and course management have been key factors.
FAQ
How did Tommy Fleetwood play Royal Birkdale as a kid?
What was Fleetwood's score in the first round of the 2024 Open?
Why is Fleetwood a popular contender at Royal Birkdale?
As the Open Championship continues, all eyes are on Fleetwood. His journey from fence-hopping kid to major contender is a story of perseverance and talent. If he can maintain his form, there wouldn’t be a more popular winner at Royal Birkdale.
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