Australian golfer Lucas Herbert took the lead at the British Open on Friday after shooting a record-equalling 62 [3].
This performance places Herbert in a dominant position heading into the weekend, establishing a significant psychological and numerical advantage over the field at Royal Birkdale.
The second round of the Open Championship on July 17, 2026, saw Herbert produce a display of precision in Southport, England [5]. He recorded six birdies [1] across the first nine holes, finishing that stretch with a score of 28, which is six-under par [2]. This front-nine performance equalled the record for the tournament.
Herbert maintained his momentum through the remainder of the course to post a total round score of 62 [3]. The low score allowed him to surge up the leaderboard and claim a two-shot lead [4].
Royal Birkdale Golf Club is known for its challenging conditions, making a sub-65 round particularly rare in a major championship. Herbert's ability to capitalize on the front nine provided the necessary cushion to withstand the pressure of the back half.
His current standing puts him at the top of the leaderboard as the tournament progresses into its final stages. The Australian's performance is now the benchmark for the rest of the field as they attempt to close the gap before the final round.
“Lucas Herbert took the lead at the British Open on Friday after shooting a record-equalling 62.”
A record-tying round of 62 in a major championship typically signals a shift in momentum. By securing a two-shot lead through a dominant front-nine performance, Herbert has forced his competitors to take more aggressive risks on the course to keep pace, which often leads to higher error rates for the chasing pack.
