Overview

• The R&A confirmed first- and second-round tee times, pairing Rory McIlroy with Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Thomas at 10:10 a.m. local time.
• Scottie Scheffler leads the odds at +550 on bet365, with Rory McIlroy close behind at +650.
• Defending champion Xander Schauffele joins past winners Shane Lowry and Jon Rahm in a deep field drawn from the PGA, LIV and DP World Tours.
• Royal Portrush’s firm, dune-strewn links and unpredictable winds will demand specialized links-style shotmaking.
• Competition officially begins on July 17 after weeks of finalized pairings, confirmed betting markets and the ceremonial opener.