Tommy Fleetwood is competing in this year’s Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, a venue located in his hometown of Southport, England. The tournament, which began earlier this week, is drawing a record crowd expected to reach 300,000 spectators, many of whom are closely following Fleetwood’s performance. His group for the first two rounds includes prominent players Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth.

Fleetwood described the experience as especially meaningful due to the chance to play a major championship in the town where he grew up. “It’s a dream just to be competing in an Open here,” he said, noting the strong local support he has received. Fleetwood began playing golf in nearby Formby Hall and has long aspired to compete at Royal Birkdale, even sneaking onto the course with his father as a child. Now ranked as the third favorite to win the tournament behind Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, Fleetwood is under intense scrutiny and support from fans hoping to see him capture his first major title.

Despite consistent performances in major championships—finishing second at the 2018 US Open and again at the 2019 Open at Portrush—Fleetwood has yet to secure a major victory. His most recent top-10 major finish came with a tie for third at the 2024 Masters. His career on the PGA Tour has had its ups and downs, but a victory at last year’s Tour Championship marked a significant milestone, providing both Fleetwood and his supporters with a sense of relief.

While the home advantage offers Fleetwood familiarity with the links conditions and a tactical edge, the introduction of two new holes at this year’s Open—the fifth and the par-three fifteenth—adds complexity even for seasoned players. The potential pressures of playing in front of a passionate local crowd also pose challenges. Rory McIlroy, the tournament favorite, noted that while the environment is positive, it carries added expectations that can shift focus away from playing for oneself. Reflecting on Fleetwood’s mental approach, McIlroy remarked, “I feel like Tommy’s more level-headed than I am.”

Fleetwood’s deep connection to the area is also visible in a mural at Southport and Birkdale Sports Club, painted by local artist Paul Curtis, honoring his Ryder Cup contributions. As the championship progresses, attention remains firmly on Fleetwood, with many hoping he can translate local support and experience into a breakthrough major victory.