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Scottie Scheffler finally got his hands on the Claret Jug, and the case was never really in doubt. The world No. 1 dominated The Open Championship at Royal Portrush, winning by four shots at 17-under to claim his first Open title and $3.1 million from the $17 million purse. The victory marks Scheffler's fourth major championship and third leg of the career Grand Slam at just 29 years old.

What made this win special wasn't just the result, but how Scheffler conquered his biggest weakness. His putting on links courses had historically been problematic, but he gained nearly five strokes on the field with the flat stick across four rounds. The breakthrough performance on Northern Ireland's windswept terrain proved he's truly mastered every aspect of championship golf.

Scheffler's dominance becomes even more remarkable considering the circumstances. Playing before hostile crowds rooting desperately for Rory McIlroy's homecoming victory, he never wavered under the emotional pressure. His Saturday 62 effectively sealed the championship, but Sunday's composed 68 in challenging conditions showcased the mental fortitude that separates champions from contenders.

Only Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus have won more majors before age 30, and remarkably, both Tiger and Scottie needed exactly 1,197 days between their first and fourth major championships.

Harris English mounted the strongest challenge, firing a final-round 66 to finish second at 13-under and pocket $1.759 million. Chris Gotterup continued his breakout season with third place at 12-under, while a trio including Wyndham Clark, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Haotong Li tied for fourth at 9-under.

HOMECOMING HEARTBREAK AND TRIUMPH

While Scheffler collected the silverware, this Open belonged to the emotional storylines surrounding it. Rory McIlroy's return to Northern Ireland captivated massive crowds who lined fairways 10-deep just to glimpse their hero. His eagle on the 12th hole from 56 feet created what he called "one of the coolest moments" of his career, with seemingly all of Northern Ireland erupting.

Haotong Li provided another compelling narrative, earning his first Masters invitation since 2018 after nearly quitting golf in 2021. The Chinese player's friendship with Scheffler and inspired play earned him the viral nickname "Scheffler Slayer" courtesy of creative Wikipedia editors.

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WINNERS FROM LAST WEEK: CORE FORE

OFFICIAL WORLD GOLF RANKINGS: TOP 60

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