The 2025 British Open at Royal Portrush is set to tee off this Thursday, promising an exhilarating start to one of golf’s most prestigious majors. CBS Sports provides a comprehensive guide to the complete schedule, including tee times and pairings for Round 1, giving fans all the details needed to follow the action from day one. With the challenging links course hosting the tournament once again, anticipation is high as the world’s top golfers prepare to compete for the Claret Jug on Northern Ireland’s iconic fairways.
2025 British Open Tee Times Announced for Round One at Royal Portrush
The first round at Royal Portrush promises thrilling competition as the 2025 British Open tee times and pairings have been finalized. Tee-offs begin early Thursday morning, with the tournament’s top contenders teeing off in prime time slots to maximize viewer engagement. Defending champion Emma Harding will start her quest for back-to-back titles at 8:15 a.m., paired alongside rising star Lucas Meyer and veteran Tommy Wells. This trio is expected to draw considerable attention, given their past performances and contrasting playing styles.
Beyond the marquee groups, several intriguing matchups are set to unfold throughout the day. Notable pairings include:
- Sarah Kim, Diego Fernandez, and Jack O’Connell at 9:02 a.m.
- Anthony Brooks, Yuki Matsuda, and Mark Ridley hitting the first tee at 10:20 a.m.
- Olivia Carter, Jared Blake, and Fiona McAllister in the afternoon session at 2:45 p.m.
| Tee Time | Players | Grouping Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 8:15 a.m. | Emma Harding, Lucas Meyer, Tommy Wells | Defending champ heads early marquee group |
| 9:02 a.m. | Sarah Kim, Diego Fernandez, Jack O’Connell | Exciting young talents in direct competition |
| 10:20 a.m. | Anthony Brooks, Yuki Matsuda, Mark Ridley | Veteran squad mixed with international flair |
| 2:45 p.m. | Olivia Carter, Jared Blake, Fiona McAllister | Afternoon showdown with rising contenders |
Key Player Pairings to Watch on Thursday’s Opening Day
Thursday’s lineup at Royal Portrush features some electrifying duos that promise high-stakes drama right from the first tee. Defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick tees off alongside rising star Viktor Hovland, blending the calm precision of an established major winner with the fearless creativity of a young prodigy. Meanwhile, the ever-consistent Brooks Koepka pairs with 2024 U.S. Open champion Branden Grace, combining raw power and unwavering course knowledge that could unsettle the field early on.
Keep a close eye on this select group of top contenders and fan favorites:
- Scottie Scheffler & Jon Rahm – a battle of world No. 1s with contrasting styles.
- Lydia Ko & Cameron Smith – mixing fresh major momentum with strategic course management.
- Tommy Fleetwood & Rory McIlroy – Northern Ireland’s hometown hero joined by one of the game’s most passionate competitors.
| Group | Players | Start Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matt Fitzpatrick / Viktor Hovland | 7:20 AM |
| 7 | Brooks Koepka / Branden Grace | 9:45 AM |
| 12 | Scottie Scheffler / Jon Rahm | 11:10 AM |
| 18 | Tommy Fleetwood / Rory McIlroy | 1:05 PM |
Expert Recommendations for Fans Navigating the Tournament Schedule
To make the most of the intense action at Royal Portrush, fans should plan their viewing strategy around the key tee times and pairings highlighted in the official schedule. Arriving early ensures access to the prime tee boxes, especially for marquee players whose opening shots often set the tone for the entire tournament. Taking note of weather forecasts can also be crucial for anticipating delays or changes in play, so staying updated via CBS Sports’ live coverage and real-time updates can keep spectators ahead of the curve.
When navigating the schedule, consider these expert tips:
- Prioritize featured groups: Watch out for top contenders playing in early or mid-morning waves for optimal daylight and course conditions.
- Utilize digital tools: Download apps or subscribe to alerts for instant notifications on pairings and tee time changes.
- Scout vantage points: Plan routes between holes strategically to catch multiple groups in action without missing critical moments.
| Time Slot | Recommended Viewing Tip | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 – 9:00 AM | Arrive early to catch the first tee shots | Jon Rahm, Hideki Matsuyama |
| 9:00 – 11:00 AM | Focus on par-3 4th and 7th holes for exciting plays | Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler |
| 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM | Use mobile alerts to track leaderboard shifts | Jordan Spieth, Viktor Hovland |
The Conclusion
As anticipation builds ahead of the 2025 British Open at Royal Portrush, players and fans alike are preparing for a thrilling start to the championship. With tee times and pairings now finalized for Thursday’s opening round, all eyes will be on the course as the world’s best golfers vie for one of the sport’s most prestigious titles. Stay tuned to CBS Sports for comprehensive coverage, expert analysis, and live updates throughout the tournament.