SOUTHPORT, England — During this week’s British Open broadcast from Royal Birkdale, you might catch a lot of enthusiastic calls for “Come on, Tommy!”
That’s because Tommy Fleetwood, a local favorite, is one of the top contenders for the Claret Jug. He grew up in Southport, just a stroll away from Birkdale.
At 35 years old, Fleetwood, son of world No. 9’s dad, is familiar around Birkdale—he and his father Pete often snuck onto championship courses long before he became a prominent figure in golf.
“Birkdale has always had special significance for Southport residents,” Mr. Fleetwood shared on Monday.
Formby Hall, where Fleetwood honed his skills, is just down the road, and his father was a member there.
A permanent parking area bears Tommy’s name, and each year, there’s a junior competition crowned with the title ‘Tommy Fleetwood Champion.’
Additionally, there’s a cozy bar nook called the ‘Tommy Fleetwood Lounge,’ where locals often unwind with drinks after a round.
If Fleetwood doesn’t make it this week, he might jokingly note the British Open is infringing on his home club, Hillside, which is right next to Birkdale.
The training facility for the tournament is actually at Hillside, where Fleetwood has been practicing since turning professional.
“It’s incredibly special,” Fleetwood expressed on Monday. “Playing the British Open in my hometown, especially in front of supportive fans, is a rare opportunity. I still remember the 2017 British Open here.”
The last British Open held at Birkdale was nine years ago, in 2017, when chants of “Tommy Rudd” filled the air thanks to Fleetwood’s impact on the sport.
That year, he had a rocky start with a 76, followed by a 69, but bounced back with a 66 and 70 over the weekend, tying for 27th. He was just as much in the spotlight as the winner, Jordan Spieth.
Some say the pressure of home crowds might overshadow the joy of playing there for Fleetwood, but he doesn’t see it that way.
“It’s inescapable. You can’t take it lightly,” he reflected. “Imagining myself as an 8-year-old, dreaming of playing in the Birkdale Open, that’s a huge deal. If you’re not enjoying it, you’re doing something wrong. I’m just excited about the chance to perform in front of everyone.”
“Ultimately, I can’t downplay the magnitude of competing in the British Open at Birkdale. It’s a dream many would love to have, and it’s essential to savor this experience,” he added.
Fleetwood has one PGA Tour victory under his belt—the 2025 Tour Championship—and has performed consistently this year with five top-10 finishes, including three in the top five. He’s placed in the top 15 in his last 15 competitions.
His best outcomes in the British Open include a runner-up finish at Portrush in 2019 and a tie for fourth at St. Andrews in 2022.
This might be the week he finally nabs that first major victory—right in his hometown.
“Dreams come true,” Fleetwood mused. “But you won’t know unless you chase them. Mine might come true—maybe not. I think I’ve achieved quite a bit, but there’s always more to do.”
A well-known mural of Fleetwood, towering at 50 meters, can be found on the wall of the Southport & Birkdale Sports Club, crafted by local artist Paul Curtis.
“Golf is deeply personal to me. I feel like I’m always chasing my dreams, and it’s very much an individual journey. The support I receive is incredible, and it feels special to see so many invested in my journey,” Fleetwood remarked. “I don’t take that for granted.”
Fleetwood is beloved by fans and peers alike. Fellow competitor Matt Fitzpatrick mentioned on Monday, “I haven’t heard anyone say anything bad about Tommy. He’s genuinely a great person.”
“Come on, Tommy.”
