The Open Championship 2025: Rupert Bell's Pre-Tournament Thoughts

Rupert Bell is a respected sports commentator with over 30 years of experience covering a wide range of sports.

During the week, Rupert will join The Panel to bring us everything you need to know from Royal Portrush. 

Royal Portrush is ready. 

The flags are fluttering, the fairways primed and there’s a growing hum of anticipation around the course, in the town and throughout the golfing world. 

But don’t be fooled by the serene conditions of this glorious Wednesday. 

The sun may be out, but it’s a deceptive calm before what is expected to be a wild four-day storm - in every sense.

The weather has been the talk among players and pundits. 

Wednesday has been beautiful, almost balmy, but the forecast ahead suggests a proper Open test lies in wait.

Expect gusts up to 25mph and heavy, squally showers across the week. 

The breeze is also due to shift direction, meaning practice rounds haven’t necessarily given players a reliable read on what’s to come. 

As ever with links golf, patience and adaptability will be paramount.

Tee Time Strategy And Form Lines

One early tip for punters might be to favour those drawn in the morning on Thursday. 

The forecast hints that those out earlier could get the better end of the draw before the wind picks up later in the day.

That could hamper players like Rory McIlroy if conditions turn during his afternoon tee time. 

As is so often the case on the coast, things can swing quickly. Late evenings can calm, offering a surprise respite. The weather remains a ‘movable beast’.

From the practice rounds and the chatter around the course, there’s a growing sense of confidence around Jon Rahm. 

The knowledgeable observers here have been impressed. He was sharp last week in Valderrama and his comfort on this course is clear. 

A strong run feels probable and he’s been backed into 11/1 on golf betting sites to win the Claret Jug. 

Meanwhile, Scottish hope Bob MacIntyre, who has also been backed into around a 28/1 shot, struck a chord in his press conference, stressing the need to stay present and not let a bad bounce derail your round. 

That will be essential here. This place punishes impatience.

The LIV Factor And Reed’s Return

One subplot that shouldn’t be ignored is the presence of 19 LIV golfers in the field. 

Among them is Patrick Reed, who is back after missing out last year. 

Often cast as the pantomime villain, he arrives in Portrush with a point to prove, having battled through qualifying in Macau to secure his place. 

With the weather potentially neutralising the big hitters, Reed’s gritty scrambling game could come into play and he may be overpriced at 70/1 on betting apps.

The Open Atmosphere - And A Sensible Pint

One of the joys of The Open, and Portrush in particular, is how seamlessly the players blend into the town. 

Last night down by the harbour, it wasn’t unusual to spot major champions like Keegan Bradley enjoying chips at a quiet table or Rahm strolling past the restaurants. 

There’s a mutual respect between fans and players. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming and low-key in the best way.

And yes, for those curious, I have found my favourite Malbec. 

I’ve also found something else refreshing - the prices. Unlike many major events, Portrush hasn’t gone overboard. 

Pints are sensibly priced (around £6.80), and it’s one of those rare events where you don’t feel gouged for simply wanting to enjoy the day.

Check out our other Open Championship articles:

• Rupert Bell's Best Outsider Tips For Royal Portrush Glory
• The Panel's Best Each-Way Selections
• Next First-Time Golf Major Champion
• The Panel's First Round Leader Tips
• Royal Portrush's Toughest/Easiest Holes In 2019

The Final Word

So, we’re set. The sun may shine for now, but don’t let that fool you. 

This is an Open where the wind will howl, the rain will lash and where every hole could be the one to derail a dream.

My headline pick remains Sepp Straka.

If you’re backing a few names, keep one eye on Rahm, maybe sneak in a nibble on Reed and savour the drama that only an Open on the Northern Irish coast can deliver.