The Open 2026: Fleetwood, McIntyre, Wallace and Fitzpatrick lead British charge at Brickdale

England’s Tommy Fleetwood says the support from his home Birkdale crowd has “100%” helped propel him into open contention – but he’s not the only England player ready to hit the leaderboard.

Fleetwood, who grew up on Southport Road, shot a three-under 67 on Friday to move into eighth place at four under.

Scotland’s Robert McIntyre is in a star-studded pack with Fleetwood, which includes English pair Matt Wallace and Alex Fitzpatrick, as well as Spanish star Jon Rahm and defending champion and world number one Scotty Scheffler.

The team is four shots behind Australian leader Lucas Herbert – who has been carded. Friday’s second round record-62 – With Bryson DeChambeau also well in the mix, though Accepting a controversial two-shot penalty For “improving the lie without knowing”.

Despite all the drama, it is Fleetwood that will remain the center of attention on Saturday.

The local favorite has received a rapturous reception on the course over two days as he looks to finally win a major trophy.

After crashing to an opening day 69, Fleetwood had to work harder on Friday.

“They were very happy to play in front for these two days. I like to play good golf there and play something fun,” said the European Ryder Cup star.

“They make a big difference for me. They helped me a lot when I was struggling (Thursday). You can’t ask for more than what they give me.”

There couldn’t have been a more popular winner at Birkdale this week.

Fleetwood grew up playing at nearby Formby Hall and would occasionally drive over the fence at Royal Birkdale to get to the course he wanted to play. He still speaks in the same vein as thousands cheer him on around the Merseyside links.

Fleetwood is a PGA Tour winner, Europe’s Ryder Cup talisman and one of the best contemporary players to never win a major, but he also relates to the locals.

If it turns Sunday, there will be a party like you’ve never seen before in Berkdale and the surrounding area.

“There’s definitely pressure,” Fleetwood added.

“My own hopes are very high, and my own dreams start here. All of that is big, but it’s only a good thing.”

More to follow.