Michael Stewart, currently ranked 979th in the world, delivered a stunning performance in the opening round of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, posting a 65 to share the top spot on the leaderboard. The 36‑year‑old, who has only competed in five DP World Tour events—his most recent appearance being in 2023—took to the tees less than a day after finishing runner‑up at the Tartan Tour's Duddingston Classic, an event he entered via a sponsor's invitation earlier in the week.
Stewart's round was defined by an explosive back‑nine at Carnoustie Golf Links. After a modest start on the front nine, where he recorded just a single birdie, he surged forward with a series of spectacular shots. The turning point came on the par‑five 12th hole, where he holed an eagle that ignited a run of five holes played at six under par.
He closed the back nine with flawless play, carding a seven‑under‑par round without any blemishes. When asked about his preparation, Stewart admitted he had not taken a traditional practice round at the venue. "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 explained.
"I'm just delighted to be part of the tournament. Links golf feels like home to me, and I was able to play really well all day." The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is unique in that it rotates across three historic courses: Carnoustie, Kingsbarns, and the iconic Old Course at St Andrews, which hosts the final day. In addition to the individual competition, the tournament features a celebrity team component, pairing former sports stars and well‑known personalities with the professional golfers. Other notable performances in the opening round included Matt Fitzpatrick, who arrived in Scotland fresh off his fourth victory of the season at the Open de France.
Fitzpatrick carded a four‑under‑par 68 at Carnoustie, while his Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood posted a two‑under‑par 70 on the same course. Five‑time major champion Brooks Koepka also made his presence felt, delivering a three‑under‑par 69 at Carnoustie. Defending champion and Scottish favorite Bob MacIntyre recorded a one‑under‑par round, keeping himself within striking distance of the leaders. Veteran Lee Westwood, returning to the DP World Tour after nearly four years, managed a one‑under‑par 71 at St Andrews, and fellow Englishman Ian Poulter, also back after a lengthy hiatus, posted an even‑par 72 at Carnoustie.
LIV Golf participant Bubba Watson matched Poulter with an even‑par round at Carnoustie as well. The tournament will continue over the next two days, with the final round slated for the storied Old Course at St Andrews. Fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports Golf starting at midday on Friday.
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The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship not only showcases elite professional golf but also celebrates the rich heritage of links courses, offering spectators a blend of tradition, drama, and breathtaking scenery. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether Stewart can maintain his momentum and possibly turn this unexpected surge into a breakthrough victory on the world stage.