Birkdale 2026 Open: McIlroy, Gotterup and Fleetwood Chase Leaderboard

At the 2026 Open Championship on the demanding Royal Birkdale course, the leaderboard is shifting dramatically. Rory McIlroy surged ahead with a string of birdies in the second round, while Chris Gotterup is trying to carve out a place with his steady play.

Tommy Fleetwood remains consistent, keeping himself in contention for the top spot. The tournament’s windy conditions and fast fairways promise further surprises.