Justin Rose Defeated by Xander Schauffele

Justin Rose was narrowly defeated by Xander Schauffele, who secured his second major title in three months by winning the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon in a gripping final round. Schauffele, who finished with a bogey-free 65 to end at nine under par, became the first golfer since Rory McIlroy in 2014 to win both The Open and the US PGA Championship in the same year. Rose, who shot 67, finished two strokes behind Schauffele, coming closest to his first Claret Jug since his 2013 US Open win.

Schauffele’s remarkable performance included a six-birdie round, demonstrating his calm and precision under pressure. He attributed his composed play to his recent US PGA Championship victory, which helped him manage his nerves. The final day saw Schauffele’s lead expand after a rapid series of birdies on the back nine, ultimately distancing himself from the competition. Justin Rose, who had briefly led with three birdies on his front nine, faced tough conditions on the back nine but played solidly to finish second.

Overnight leader Billy Horschel faded but birdied the last three holes to join Rose in a tie for second. Schauffele’s back nine was particularly impressive, as he played it in just 31 shots, widely regarded as the toughest stretch in championship golf. Among the other contenders, Jon Rahm and Shane Lowry showed early promise but couldn’t maintain their form.

Schauffele’s win marks a significant achievement in a season where all four men’s major titles have gone to American players. England’s hopes of a home Open winner continue with Sir Nick Faldo’s 1992 victory remaining the last English triumph. Scotland’s Calum Scott earned the Silver Medal as the low amateur with a closing 76.