The 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale boasts a record prize purse for a major golf tournament. Sportsbooks show no clear-cut favorite. Expert predictions exhibit a spread of opinions. Naming multiple contenders in the mix, analysts present no clear leader. Predictions conflict, while analysts suggest this year may produce a surprise champion. Coverage also stresses smart course navigation at Royal Birkdale. Royal Birkdale returns as the host course, a classic links layout known for brutal conditions.