Heat Wave Bakes Royal Birkdale: Open Championship Faces Unique Challenge

The 2026 Open Championship is unfolding at Royal Birkdale under the grip of a historic heat wave, presenting a unique challenge for players and course management. Temperatures have soared, causing the links to bake and the turf to harden considerably, conditions not experienced during the tournament since 1976. This dry heat is significantly impacting the course's playability. Bryson DeChambeau responded to criticism of his strategy by shooting a 3-under 67 in the first round, a performance that emphasized strategic placement despite hitting only four of fourteen fairways.

Gabby reports from Royal Birkdale in Southport, England, detailing how the extreme heat, reaching 82 degrees Fahrenheit earlier this week, is affecting the course. The normally resilient links are now golden brown, with hardened putting surfaces. Course officials are implementing minimal watering, providing just enough to keep the grass alive through the day, as no rain is forecast for the remainder of the tournament. This marks a significant departure from the typical wet and cold conditions often associated with the Open Championship at this venue.