The 154th Open Championship kicks off at Royal Birkdale, featuring top golfers like Scottie Scheffler and Tom Kim. Here's how to watch the tournament.
New Delhi, India Jul 16, 2026 ALN: The final major championship of the 2026 golf season is here as the worldâs best players head to Royal Birkdale in Southport, England, for the 154th playing of The Open Championship. Golfâs oldest major returns to one of its most historic venues, where players will compete for the coveted Claret Jug before the PGA Tour season shifts its focus to the FedExCup Playoffs. The Open Championship, often referred to simply as "The Open," is a prestigious event that has been held annually since 1860, making it the oldest golf tournament in the world.
Royal Birkdale has a rich history in the sport, having hosted The Open Championship numerous times since it was first played there in 1954. The course is known for its challenging links layout, which features a combination of natural terrain, deep bunkers, and unpredictable weather conditions typical of the British Isles. These factors contribute to the difficulty of the course, making it a true test of skill and resilience for the competitors.
The tournament arrives with plenty of storylines, starting with defending champion and world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who enters The Open looking to build on his recent major success. Schefflerâs preparation took an unexpected turn last week at the Genesis Scottish Open, where he missed the cut for the first time since the 2022 FedEx St. Jude Championship. This rare setback has raised questions about his form leading into The Open, but Scheffler has shown remarkable resilience in his career thus far, often bouncing back from adversity with strong performances.
Scheffler will face a strong group of contenders, including Tom Kim, who is coming off a victory at last weekâs Genesis Scottish Open. Kim, a young and dynamic player, has quickly made a name for himself on the PGA Tour with a series of impressive finishes, and his recent win has positioned him as a serious threat in this major championship. The excitement surrounding Kim is palpable, as fans are eager to see if he can translate his success on the Scottish links to the demanding layout of Royal Birkdale.
Tommy Fleetwood is another player to watch, as he returns to Royal Birkdale with a unique hometown connection, having grown up just minutes from the course in Southport. Fleetwood has long been a fan favorite, and the local support he receives could provide an added boost as he seeks to capture his first major title. His familiarity with the course, combined with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him a formidable contender.
The field also features several recent major champions looking to add another title to their resumes, including Rory McIlroy, Aaron Rai, and Wyndham Clark, all chasing the 2026 Claret Jug. McIlroy, a four-time major champion, is always a player to watch in any tournament he enters. His powerful driving and exceptional putting skills can be pivotal in navigating the challenges presented by the links course. Meanwhile, Aaron Rai has been steadily improving his game and is known for his consistency and mental fortitude, which are essential attributes in major championships.
Wyndham Clark, who recently claimed his first major title, is another player generating buzz. His confidence following that victory could play a crucial role in his performance at The Open, as he seeks to establish himself as a regular contender in major tournaments.
Hereâs everything you need to know about how to watch The Open Championship, including the full TV schedule and the best ways to stream every round without cable. The Open Championship is one of the most-watched events in golf, attracting millions of viewers from around the world. With the advancement of technology and streaming services, fans have more options than ever to follow the action live.
Coverage of The Open Championship begins Thursday, July 16 and streams on Peacock, NBC, and USA Network all weekend long. Hereâs when and where to stream all four rounds of golfâs final major:
If youâre looking to watch The Open Championship without cable, you have several streaming options to choose from, including services that offer free trials and flexible streaming plans. The rise of streaming platforms has revolutionized how fans consume sports, allowing for greater accessibility and convenience.
Peacock is the official streaming home, but you can also use Hulu + Live TV, which is one of the easiest ways to stream The Open Championship, with access to NBC and USA Network in its live channel lineup in eligible markets. Plans start at $89.99 per month and include access to Disney+ and ESPN, with a 3-day free trial currently available for new users. This combination of services offers a comprehensive viewing experience for sports fans.
SlingTV is one of the more affordable options for streaming USA Network coverage of The Open Championship. The Sling Blue plan includes USA Network, with plans starting at $45.99 per month. This option is particularly appealing for viewers looking for a budget-friendly way to catch the tournament.
DirecTVâs Entertainment package includes local NBC channels. For a limited time, the plan is discounted to $59.99 for the first month (a $30 savings) and includes 90+ channels, including ESPN. New customers can also take advantage of a 5-day free trial, making it a viable choice for those who want to watch The Open without a long-term commitment.
One of the most affordable ways to access Peacock is through a Walmart+ membership. New members can try Walmart+ for just $1 for 30 days and receive six months of Peacock Premium at no additional cost, making it a budget-friendly option for streaming the tournament and more NBCUniversal content. This offer can be particularly attractive for casual viewers who may not watch golf regularly but want to tune in for The Open.
You can now access Peacock through YouTube Primetime Channels, YouTubeâs Ă la carte storefront for individual streaming subscriptions. Unlike YouTube TV, thereâs no base monthly fee â you only pay for the services you choose to add. Peacock Premium Plus is available through YouTube for $16.99 per month, providing another flexible option for fans looking to customize their viewing experience.
The Open Championship not only represents the pinnacle of golfing achievement but also serves as a cultural event that brings together fans from across the globe. As the tournament unfolds, the stories of the players, their struggles, and triumphs will resonate with audiences, making it a must-watch event for sports enthusiasts. With the combination of a historic venue, top-tier competitors, and accessible viewing options, The Open Championship promises to be an unforgettable experience for all involved.
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