Justin Rose, the English golfer who first made a mark at Royal Birkdale nearly three decades ago, is once again positioned as a strong contender at The Open Championship held at the same course in Southport. At 45, Rose appears to have maintained his competitive edge, demonstrating physical fitness, length, and consistency that suggest he remains capable of securing another major title.

Rose originally captured attention as a 17-year-old amateur when he holed out from the rough on the 18th hole at Royal Birkdale to finish tied for fourth in the 1998 Open. That moment remains a significant milestone in his career and a memorable scene in major championship history. While Rose has accrued an impressive professional record, including a 2013 U.S. Open victory, a Claret Jug has eluded him. If successful, he would be the first Englishman to win The Open since Sir Nick Faldo in 1992.

Nick Dougherty, a former colleague and Sky Sports presenter, praised Rose’s longevity and sustained performance at the highest level. He highlighted Rose’s work ethic and physical conditioning as factors that have kept him competitive over many years. Dougherty described Rose as “one of the guys who could win this Open” and compared his endurance in the sport to that of Adam Scott, noting that both represent remarkable stories of longevity in professional golf.

In addition to Rose, several other English players are expected to challenge for the title. Tommy Fleetwood, 35, will compete under heightened scrutiny as the local favorite. Dougherty acknowledged that while Fleetwood shows strong form, a critical challenge for him will be managing the pressure of expectations on home soil. “You’ve got to quiet the noise around you, and if Tommy is able to do that, he’s got a really great chance,” he said.

Other English contenders include Tyrrell Hatton and Matt Fitzpatrick, both of whom have demonstrated the skill to contend at a major. Collectively, this group positions England as well-represented among the field aiming to break the 34-year drought of English Open champions.

As the championship unfolds at Royal Birkdale, attention remains on Rose’s potential to add to his major wins late in his career, while Fleetwood and others seek to capitalize on home advantage. The combination of experience and emerging talent signals an engaging contest with English golfers prominently in the mix for the Claret Jug.