The world of golf has been abuzz with excitement as the 2026 Open Championship unfolds at Royal Birkdale. In a remarkable turn of events, we've witnessed not one, not two, but three rounds of 62 in the span of just over a day, a testament to the skill and precision of these elite golfers.
This unprecedented streak began with Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns on Friday, and was continued by New Zealand's Ryan Fox on Saturday. Fox's performance was nothing short of exceptional, and it's a testament to the evolving nature of the sport and the incredible talent on display.
The Quest for Perfection
What makes this achievement particularly fascinating is the context. Fox, like Herbert, had the opportunity to shoot a historic 61, but a challenging bunker shot on the 18th left him with a 48-foot putt. While he didn't quite make it, his subsequent putt ensured he joined the elite club of golfers who have achieved a 62 in a major championship.
This is a rare feat, with only eight rounds of 62 recorded in major championships, and half of those at Royal Birkdale itself. It's a testament to the course's challenge and the skill required to navigate it.
Weather and Course Conditions
One factor that cannot be overlooked is the weather. Fox noted the ideal conditions, with calm winds and perfect greens. The ball was flying further due to the dry fairways, creating an environment conducive to low scores. It's a reminder of how external factors can influence the outcome of a tournament, and how golfers must adapt to these conditions.
The Pressure of Leading
With his impressive round, Fox holds the clubhouse lead, tied with Australian Herbert. The pressure is on as he prepares for the final round, knowing he has a real chance to win the Open. It's a nerve-wracking position to be in, but Fox's aggressive approach has served him well so far.
The Impact of History
Branden Grace's historic 62 in 2017 opened the floodgates, with six more players emulating his feat since. Fox's playing partner, Xander Schauffele, has achieved this twice, at the 2023 US Open and 2024 US PGA Championship. Interestingly, Schauffele's victory at Valhalla two years ago is the only instance where a player has won the major after shooting a 62 in the same tournament.
Schauffele praised Fox's performance, acknowledging the risk he took and the need to stay aggressive. He also noted the challenging pin placements, suggesting they were on slopes to prevent another 62.
A New Record
Just a week ago, Haeran Ryu made history by shooting an 11-under-par 60 at the Evian Championship, setting a new record for the lowest round in any men's or women's major. This achievement showcases the incredible talent and potential in the sport, and the records that are continually being broken.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on these remarkable achievements, it's clear that golf is a sport that continually pushes its athletes to new heights. The records set at Royal Birkdale and beyond are a testament to the skill, precision, and mental fortitude required to excel at the highest level. It's an exciting time for golf, and I, for one, can't wait to see what the future holds.
