Rory McIlroy stands among the favorites for the Open Championship 2026 as golf’s final major approaches. The 37-year-old Northern Irish star shares top billing with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler in the latest betting markets.
What are the Open Championship 2026 odds?
The Open Championship 2026 betting odds place Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler at the front of the pack. Sportsbooks rate both as the co-leaders heading into the tournament at St Andrews, set for 18–21 July 2026. McIlroy’s experience on links layouts and his recent form keep him squarely in contention.
Why does Rory McIlroy’s status matter now?
Rory McIlroy’s inclusion among the favorites reflects his sustained elite play and familiarity with Open venues. The Northern Irishman has won the Claret Jug once before and has finished inside the top five in three of his last six appearances. With Scheffler chasing a career Grand Slam, McIlroy’s challenge adds a layer of intrigue to the field.
Who else sits in the betting mix?
Beyond McIlroy and Scheffler, the Open Championship 2026 odds also feature Xander Schauffele, Viktor Hovland, and Jon Rahm as leading contenders. Each brings a different strength—Schauffele’s putting, Hovland’s iron play, Rahm’s power—but McIlroy’s major pedigree keeps him in the spotlight.
What’s next for Rory McIlroy at St Andrews?
Rory McIlroy will tee off on Thursday at St Andrews, the Old Course hosting the Open for the first time since 2022. McIlroy’s preparation includes practice rounds alongside Scheffler and Rahm, with both men acknowledging the challenge of St Andrews’ fast greens and deep bunkers. A strong start could vault McIlroy into contention early.