Xander Schauffele triumphed at The Open, capturing his second major title of the year with a sensational final-day performance. Schauffele, 30, surged ahead with six birdies, finishing at nine under par and two shots clear of runner-up Justin Rose. This victory makes him the first player to win both The Open and the PGA Championship in the same year since Rory McIlroy in 2014.
Justin Rose, despite a valiant effort, fell short but received a standing ovation after a birdie on the 18th hole. His caddie, Mark Fulcher, praised Schauffele, calling him “top class” while humorously admitting he wished he could call him “a bit of a w****r.”
Rose congratulated Schauffele, reflecting on his own near-miss. “The dream’s been alive all week,” Rose said. “I got off to a strong start and played my way into the tournament, but Xander gained momentum. He’s an ice-cold competitor and one of the best players in the world.”
Rose shared second place with Billy Horschel, while Schauffele’s six under par round secured his second major title in three months. This year’s majors have been dominated by American players, with Bryson DeChambeau and Scottie Scheffler winning the US Open and Masters, respectively.