Several contenders on the move as challenge to Open leader Burns gathers pace

American Sam Burns held a two-shot overnight lead heading into the final round of The Open at Royal Birkdale

Scottie Scheffler was at four-under heading into the final round at the 2026 Open but three front nine birdies moved him up the leaderboard. Pic: Jacob King/PA Wire.

The challenge to front-runner Sam Burns was gathering pace at The 154th Open Championship on Sunday, before the overnight leader had begun his final round.

American Burns had held a two-shot lead on the field after 54 holes at Royal Birkdale, having backed up his record-equalling best men’s major championship round of 62 on Friday with a four-under par 66 the following day.