Xander Schauffele will look to defend his British Open title against a field led by Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler when the 153rd Open Championship begins at Royal Portrush on Thursday.

Backspin: His year was slowed by a rib injury that kept him out for two months. Padraig Harrington (2007-08), Tiger Woods (2005-06) and Tom Watson (1982-83) are the only back-to-back Open champions the last 50 years.

It’s a job that he loves, but a job nonetheless, and his family and faith are what are important. But towards the end of his pre-championship press conference he was asked about “the most crushing loss” he had ever experienced.

From Scottie Scheffler's philosophical press conference to a walk around Royal Portrush with Northern Ireland's favorite pros, get caught up.

By winning his second PGA Tour title and a $1,575,000 check, Scottish Open winner Chris Gotterup jumped from 96th on the money list with barely more than $1 million to 51st with $2,586,336.