Michael Stewart, currently ranked 979th in the world, delivered a standout 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 participated 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, where he had earned a sponsor's invitation earlier in the week.
Stewart's round was defined by an extraordinary back‑nine at Carnoustie. After a modest start on the front nine, where he recorded just a single birdie, he surged forward on the latter half of the course. The turning point came on the par‑five 12th hole, where he holed an eagle, setting off a cascade of low scores that saw him card five holes in six under par. He closed the round with a flawless seven‑under‑par 65, a score that placed him shoulder‑to‑shoulder with the leaders.
When asked about his preparation, Stewart admitted he had not taken a formal practice round at Carnoustie. "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.
"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 courses: Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and the Old Course at St Andrews, with the final day reserved for the iconic 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 atmosphere to the event.
Other notable performances on the first day included Matt Fitzpatrick, who arrived in Scotland fresh from his fourth victory of the season at the Open de France. Fitzpatrick recorded a four‑under‑par 68 at Carnoustie. His Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood was two under par on the same course. Five‑time major champion Brooks Koepka posted a 69, three under par, while defending champion and Scottish favorite Bob MacIntyre was one under.
Veteran players Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, both making their first DP World Tour appearances in nearly four years, also featured on the leaderboard. Westwood shot a one‑under‑par round at St Andrews, and Poulter carded an even‑par round at Carnoustie. LIV Golf participant Bubba Watson matched Poulter with an even‑par score at Carnoustie.
The tournament's format, which rotates the field across three links venues, tests a golfer's adaptability to varying conditions—from the firm, fast‑running fairways of Carnoustie to the strategic dunes of Kingsbarns and the historic challenges of St Andrews. Players must adjust their shot selection, club choice, and mental approach to succeed on each course.
Stewart's rapid ascent from a relatively low world ranking to sharing the lead highlights the depth of talent present on the DP World Tour and underscores the unpredictable nature of links golf, where a single brilliant hole can dramatically alter a player's fortunes. His performance also serves as a reminder that opportunities such as sponsor exemptions can provide a platform for emerging players to showcase their abilities on a global stage.
Fans can continue to follow the action as the tournament moves to its next venue, with live coverage available on Sky Sports Golf starting Friday at midday. The final day will culminate on the Old Course at St Andrews, where the remaining competitors will vie for the coveted Alfred Dunhill Links Championship title. For those inspired to experience world‑class golf themselves, there are over 1,700 courses across the UK and Ireland where you can book a round.
Simply enter your desired course, city, or postal code to find the best rates and secure your tee time.