World No. 979 Michael Stewart delivered a standout performance on the opening day of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, posting a 65 to share the top spot after the first round. The 36‑year‑old, who has only appeared in five DP World Tour events – his most recent outing coming in 2023 – stepped onto the first tee less than a day after finishing runner‑up at the Tartan Tour’s Duddingston Classic, where he had been granted a sponsor’s invitation earlier in the week.
Stewart’s round was defined by a spectacular back‑nine at Carnoustie. After a steady start on the front nine, he surged forward with an eagle on the par‑five 12th hole, a moment that ignited a run of five holes played at six under par overall. He capped the day with a flawless seven‑under‑par 65, recording only a single birdie on the front nine and then stringing together a series of birdies and the pivotal eagle to finish without any bogeys.
When asked about his preparation, Stewart admitted he had not taken a dedicated practice round at Carnoustie, noting, “It’s easy to get yourself up for this event. I played Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday at Duddingston but I’ve played a lot here in the past.” He went on to express his enthusiasm for the tournament, saying, “Just delighted to be able to be part of the event. I feel right at home with links golf. I just played really nice all day.” The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is unique in its format, rotating across three historic courses: Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and the Old Course at St Andrews, with the final round traditionally held on the iconic Old Course.
In addition to the individual competition, the event features a team component that pairs professional golfers with former athletes and celebrities, adding a festive, cross‑sport atmosphere to the week‑long tournament. Among the other notable performances on the first day, Matt Fitzpatrick – fresh off his fourth victory of the season at the Open de France – recorded a four‑under‑par 68 at Carnoustie. His Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood was two under for the day, also at Carnoustie, demonstrating the depth of talent among the field. Five‑time major champion Brooks Koepka posted a solid 69, three under par, while defending champion and Scottish favorite Bob MacIntyre carded a one‑under‑par round at the same venue.
Veteran Lee Westwood, making his first DP World Tour appearance in nearly four years, posted a one‑under‑par 71 at St Andrews, and fellow LIV Golf player Ian Poulter recorded an even‑par round at Carnoustie. Bubba Watson, another LIV participant, also finished level par at Carnoustie. The tournament’s structure, which blends three distinct links courses, tests players’ adaptability and strategic acumen. Carnoustie, known for its demanding layout and deep bunkers, often rewards bold play, as evidenced by Stewart’s eagle on the 12th.
Kingsbarns, with its coastal dunes and panoramic sea views, demands precise shot‑making, while the Old Course at St Andrews – the "home of golf" – challenges competitors with its historic layout, large double greens, and ever‑present wind. Beyond the competition itself, the event offers spectators a chance to experience some of the world’s most celebrated golf venues in a single week. Fans can watch live coverage on Sky Sports Golf, with the final day slated for a Friday midday broadcast that will showcase the decisive rounds on St Andrews, Carnoustie, and Kingsbarns.
For those inspired to try their hand at links golf, a network of over 1,700 courses across the United Kingdom and Ireland provides opportunities to book a round. Whether you are a seasoned player or a newcomer, the chance to walk the same fairways as the world’s elite can be a memorable experience.
In summary, Michael Stewart’s impressive 65 on day one not only catapulted him into a shared lead but also highlighted his ability to compete against a field of seasoned tour veterans despite limited recent tour exposure. His performance, coupled with strong showings from established stars like Fitzpatrick, Koepka, and Westwood, sets the stage for an exciting tournament as the competitors rotate through the three storied links courses.
The blend of individual brilliance, team camaraderie, and the historic backdrop of Scotland’s premier golf venues ensures that the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship will continue to captivate both players and fans alike.