The 2026 golf season has been a testament to the resilience and skill of some of the world's best players. Among the 14 players who have made the cut at all four majors this year, a few standouts have emerged, while others have faced unexpected setbacks. Here's a breakdown of this exclusive group and the implications for the upcoming Open Championship.
The Elite 14
Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy: The top two players in the world rankings, these two golfers have dominated the season. Their consistent performance across all majors is a testament to their skill and mental fortitude. What makes their achievement even more impressive is their ability to handle the pressure of major tournaments, often delivering when it matters most.
** Ludvig Aberg and Cameron Young**: Both players are in the running to win their first major at Royal Birkdale. Aberg, in particular, has shown remarkable growth this season, and his performance at the US Open was a strong indicator of his potential. Young, on the other hand, has been a consistent presence in the top 10, and his chances at Birkdale are a fascinating development.
Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele, Collin Morikawa, and Hideki Matsuyama: These former major champions have also made the cut at all four majors. Their experience and skill are evident, and their presence at the top of the leaderboard is a strong indication of their ability to perform under pressure.
Michael Brennan, Sam Burns, Corey Conners, Chris Gotterup, Ben Griffin, and Kurt Kitayama: These players have also shown remarkable consistency, making the cut at all four majors. Their performance this season has been a surprise to many, and it will be interesting to see if they can maintain this form at the Open Championship.
The Surprising Misses
Justin Rose and Matt Fitzpatrick: The disappointment of these two home favorites is a stark contrast to their usual performances. Rose, in particular, has had a special connection with the fans at The Open, and his exit is a significant loss for the tournament. Fitzpatrick's label of Royal Birkdale as 'awkward' is a surprising turn of events, given his past success at similar courses.
Aaron Rai and Wyndham Clark: These players have had a remarkable season, winning the PGA Championship and US Open, respectively. Their misses at the Open Championship are a surprise, and it will be interesting to see how they bounce back.
Tom Kim, Jason Day, Viktor Hovland, and Jordan Spieth: These players have also missed the cut, which is a significant setback for their season. Their absence from the weekend rounds is a disappointment, especially for those who were counting on their performances.
The Open Championship and Beyond
The Open Championship is a crucial test for these players, and their performances will have a significant impact on their season. The challenge of Royal Birkdale is a unique one, and it will be interesting to see how these players adapt. The misses of some high-profile names add an element of unpredictability, making the tournament even more exciting.
In my opinion, the 2026 golf season has been a showcase of the sport's best, and the Open Championship will be a crucial test of their resilience and skill. The 14 players who have made the cut at all four majors have set a high bar, and their performances will shape the future of golf.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between the consistent performers and the unexpected misses. It raises a deeper question about the nature of golf and the challenges of major tournaments. The Open Championship is a unique test, and the players who rise to the occasion will be remembered as legends of the game.
