World No. 979 Michael Stewart produced a standout performance on Thursday, posting a first‑round 65 that thrust him into a share of the lead at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship.
The 36‑year‑old, who has only appeared in five DP World Tour events – the most recent being in 2023 – stepped onto the first tee less than a day after finishing runner‑up at the Tartan Tour's Duddingston Classic, a tournament he entered via a sponsor's invitation earlier in the week. Stewart's round was highlighted by an extraordinary back‑nine at Carnoustie, where he carded an eagle on the par‑five 12th hole. That eagle sparked a remarkable surge, as he went on to record five of the next six holes under par, ultimately finishing the round with a flawless seven‑under‑par 65. His front‑nine was more modest, featuring just a single birdie, but the momentum he built on the latter half of the course proved decisive.
"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," Stewart explained when asked about his lack of a dedicated practice round at Carnoustie. "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 that it is contested over three historic venues – Carnoustie Golf Links, Kingsbarns Golf Links and the Old Course at St Andrews – with the final day traditionally reserved for the Old Course. In addition to the individual competition, the tournament features a team component that pairs professional golfers with former sports stars and celebrities, adding a festive, cross‑sport dimension to the event. Other notable performances on Thursday included Matt Fitzpatrick, who arrived in Scotland fresh from his fourth victory of the year at the Open de France.
Fitzpatrick posted a four‑under‑par 68 at Carnoustie, while his Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood was two under on the same course. Five‑time major champion Brooks Koepka recorded a solid 69, placing him three under par, and defending champion Bob MacIntyre, a Scottish favorite, was one under.
Veteran English players Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, both returning to the DP World Tour after nearly four years away, also made their presence felt. Westwood posted a one‑under‑par 71 at St Andrews, while Poulter carded an even‑par round at Carnoustie. Fellow LIV Golf participant Bubba Watson matched Poulter’s even‑par score at Carnoustie, showing that the field was a blend of seasoned tour veterans and emerging talents.
The tournament’s format, which rotates the three courses over the first two days before culminating on the iconic Old Course, tests players' versatility and adaptability. Carnoustie, known for its demanding layout and unforgiving rough, often serves as the early barometer of form. Kingsbarns, with its coastal dunes and dramatic scenery, rewards creativity, while the Old Course demands strategic precision and a deep respect for the game’s traditions.
Stewart’s unexpected rise to the top of the leaderboard underscores the open nature of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, where a player with limited recent tour exposure can still compete with the world’s best. His performance also highlights the importance of momentum and confidence; the eagle on the 12th hole not only shaved two strokes off his score but seemed to unlock a wave of birdies that propelled him forward.
Looking ahead, the competition will shift to Kingsbarns for the second round, where the coastal wind and undulating fairways will present a new set of challenges. Players will need to adjust their shot selection and manage the ever‑changing conditions that are characteristic of links golf. The final day at St Andrews will bring the drama of the Old Course’s famous landmarks – the Swilcan Bridge, the Road Hole, and the iconic 18th – where every stroke is amplified by history.
Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports Golf this Friday from midday, with coverage featuring highlights from all three venues. The tournament also offers spectators the chance to experience the unique atmosphere of links golf, where tradition meets modern competition.
For those inspired by the tournament and looking to try their hand at the sport, a wide network of over 1,700 courses across the United Kingdom and Ireland is available for booking. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, you can search by course name, city, or postal code to find the perfect venue for your next round. Overall, Michael Stewart’s breakthrough round serves as a reminder that in golf, perseverance and seizing the moment can produce spectacular results, even for a player who has spent much of his recent career away from the spotlight. The remainder of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship promises further excitement as the field navigates the remaining courses, each with its own set of tests, in pursuit of the coveted title.