The Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush for just the third time in its storied history, and the spotlight shines brightest on Rory McIlroy, who is not only Northern Ireland’s favourite son but also the reigning Masters champion.

But in order for McIlroy to, perhaps, put a tremendous bow on his major-championship season, he’ll have to take on an incredible list of challengers including the game’s best – Scottie Scheffler.

Scheffler, the winner of the PGA Championship, came across the pond for the Genesis Scottish Open on the back of nine straight top-10 finishes, including three wins.

Royal Portrush, a rugged links on the north coast of Northern Ireland, hosted the Open in 2019 for the first time since 1951 and proved a thrilling test. Shane Lowry triumphed that year, and the Dunluce Links was widely praised for its dramatic scenery and challenging design. Expect stiff winds, penal rough, and unpredictable bounces once again.

Weather, as always, will also be a factor. Early forecasts suggest blustery conditions and possible rain over the weekend, which could add to the drama and favor those with proven links experience.

Four Canadians will be in the field at Royal Portrush led by top-ranked Corey Conners, who is getting back into action after withdrawing from the U.S. Open due to a wrist injury. Conners skipped the Travelers Championship but returned to tee it up at the Genesis Scottish Open.

He’s joined in the field by Taylor Pendrith, Mackenzie Hughes, and Nick Taylor. Taylor is a winner already this season and comes into The Open after his best-career major finish at the U.S. Open, a tie for 23rd.

Xander Schauffele is the defending champion, having won by two shots for his second major of 2024. Schauffele has had a steady, if unspectacular showing at the majors this year, highlighted by a T8 at the Masters).His season had an abbreviated start after suffering an injury after The Sentry.

Between the impressive field all gunning for a major – or, perhaps, a second – and the world-renowned golf course, The Open Championship for 2025 is set to be an all-timer.