Rory McIlroy Highlights Tough New Challenge at Royal Birkdale Ahead of The Open 2026

Rory McIlroy Highlights Tough New Challenge at Royal Birkdale Ahead of The Open 2026

By Alex Christian | MBCF  — June 28, 2026

Rory McIlroy has begun preparations for the 2026 Open Championship by making an early visit to Royal Birkdale, where he believes recent course changes could have a major impact on this year's tournament.

The five-time major champion toured the famous links venue weeks before The Open and was particularly struck by the redesigned fifth hole, which he says now presents golfers with a difficult risk-versus-reward decision.

Speaking with six-time major champion Sir Nick Faldo during a conversation shared by the fan community Tracking Rory on X, McIlroy explained that the course has changed noticeably since The Open was last held at Royal Birkdale in 2017.

"It's good. A little bit different from 2017, the last time we played an Open here," McIlroy said. "Some different green complexes, different holes. The fifth hole I just played is completely different."

McIlroy noted that while the short par-4 remains reachable from the tee for many players, the consequences of an inaccurate drive are now much greater.

"300 to the front. Good drivable par 4. Bit of a penalty if you go for it and you miss. I don't know if the water is quite in play on the right, but a lot of big, deep bunkers guarding the green," he said.

Despite the increased difficulty, McIlroy praised Royal Birkdale, calling it one of his favorite venues on The Open rota.

"I've always thought Birkdale is one of the best on The Open rota," he added.

Since Jordan Spieth's victory at Royal Birkdale in 2017, the course has undergone several changes. According to tournament organizers, the fourth, fifth, 14th, 15th and 18th holes have all been modified, with the 321-yard fifth hole expected to be one of the most talked-about features during championship week.

McIlroy's visit continues a preparation strategy he has followed throughout the season. Before the U.S. Open, he visited Shinnecock Hills alongside Scottie Scheffler ahead of the Memorial Tournament, while he also spent time practicing at Augusta National before the Masters.

The world No. 2 believes arriving at major championship venues early has helped his performances and intends to stick with that routine before golf's final major of the year.

"It's good to get up here and play early," McIlroy said. "I've been trying to do that at every major championship, which has been working out for me. I'm going to play the Scottish Open the week before."

With Royal Birkdale set to reward precision and smart decision-making as much as power, McIlroy hopes his early reconnaissance will give him an advantage as he chases a second Claret Jug later this summer.