Day two of The Open 2026 at Royal Birkdale delivered a dramatic shift in the leaderboard as gusty winds tested the world's best golfers. American Xander Schauffele surged into the lead with a second-round 67, putting him at 8-under par overall, one stroke ahead of overnight leader Jon Rahm.
McIlroy Stays in Contention
Rory McIlroy, seeking his second Open title, carded a solid 68 to sit at 6-under, two shots off the pace. The Northern Irishman birdied three of the final four holes to stay within striking distance. “I hung in there. The wind made it tricky, but I’m pleased with how I finished,” McIlroy said.
Rahm Slips, Schauffele Capitalizes
Jon Rahm, who opened with a 65, struggled to a 73 in the afternoon breeze, dropping to 7-under. Schauffele, meanwhile, made five birdies and just one bogey to claim the solo lead. Defending champion Collin Morikawa missed the cut after a 76, ending his title defense.
Weather Disrupts Play
The Royal Birkdale course played firm and fast, with gusts up to 25 mph causing several high scores. Only 12 players broke par in the second round, compared to 24 on Thursday. The cut line fell at 2-over par, eliminating notable names including Brooks Koepka and Justin Thomas.
Leaderboard Summary
- Xander Schauffele: 67-67 (8 under)
- Jon Rahm: 65-73 (7 under)
- Rory McIlroy: 69-68 (6 under)
- Viktor Hovland: 68-69 (5 under)
- Tommy Fleetwood: 70-68 (4 under)
Moving day promises more challenges as the forecast calls for continued wind. Schauffele, seeking his first major, will tee off alongside Rahm and McIlroy in the final grouping.
