World No. 979 Michael Stewart produced a stunning performance on the first day of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, posting a 65 to share the top spot after his opening round. The 36‑year‑old, who has only appeared in five DP World Tour events – his most recent outing was in 2023 – stepped onto the tee less than a day after finishing runner‑up at the Tartan Tour’s Duddingston Classic, an event he entered after receiving a sponsor’s invitation earlier in the week.
Stewart’s round was anchored by a spectacular back‑nine at Carnoustie. He birdied the par‑five 12th, then proceeded to card five of the next six holes under par, a surge that propelled him to a flawless seven‑under‑par 65. The front nine was more modest, with just a single birdie, but the flawless finish on the latter half of the course underscored his ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities when they arose. When asked about his preparation, Stewart admitted he had not taken a traditional practice round.
“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, emphasizing his familiarity with links golf despite the lack of a dedicated warm‑up session. “I’m just delighted to be part of the tournament.
I feel right at home on links courses and I just played really well all day.” The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship is a unique three‑course tournament that rotates play among Carnoustie, Kingsbarns and the iconic Old Course at St Andrews, with the final day traditionally held on the historic St Andrews layout. In addition to the individual competition, the event features a celebrity team component, pairing professional golfers with former athletes and well‑known public figures. Other notable performances on the first day included Matt Fitzpatrick, who arrived in Scotland fresh off his fourth victory of the season at the Open de France.
Fitzpatrick posted a four‑under‑par 68 at Carnoustie, while his Ryder Cup teammate Tommy Fleetwood carded a two‑under‑par 70 on the same course. Five‑time major champion Brooks Koepka was three under after a 69, and defending champion and local favorite Bob MacIntyre recorded a one‑under‑par 71. Veteran English golfers Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter, making their first DP World Tour appearances in nearly four years, also featured on the leaderboard.
Westwood posted a one‑under‑par 71 at St Andrews, while Poulter matched par with a 72 at Carnoustie. Fellow LIV Golf participant Bubba Watson was level par at Carnoustie as well. The tournament’s format, which blends three historic links venues, tests a player’s adaptability to varying wind conditions, firm fairways, and the strategic demands of each course. Carnoustie, known for its demanding layout and penal rough, often rewards precise ball‑striking and sound course management, while Kingsbarns offers a more open, seaside setting with sweeping views and fewer hazards.
The Old Course at St Andrews, the "Home of Golf," adds a layer of tradition and pressure, as players navigate its famous double greens and historic bunkers. Stewart’s rapid ascent to the top of the leaderboard is especially noteworthy given his limited exposure to the DP World Tour. His recent success at the Duddingston Classic, where he finished second, earned him a sponsor’s invitation to the Dunhill Links, and he has made the most of the opportunity.
The back‑nine surge at Carnoustie demonstrated his knack for scoring when the conditions align, a trait that could serve him well as the tournament moves to Kingsbarns and ultimately the Old Course. As the competition progresses, the field will be reduced, and the pressure will intensify, particularly on the final day at St Andrews where the championship is decided.
The blend of seasoned tour veterans, rising talents like Stewart, and celebrity participants creates a compelling narrative that draws both golf aficionados and casual viewers. Fans can continue to follow the action on Sky Sports Golf, which will broadcast the tournament from midday on Friday, showcasing the dramatic play across the three links venues. For those inspired to experience the same courses, a network of over 1,700 courses throughout the UK and Ireland offers booking options, allowing golfers of all levels to tee off on historic grounds.
The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship remains a highlight of the early‑season swing, offering a rare combination of competitive golf, scenic coastal settings, and a festive atmosphere that celebrates the sport’s heritage while spotlighting emerging talent such as Michael Stewart.