Royal Portrush Bench Hosts Golf Stars at The Open 2025

At the 2025 Open at Royal Portrush, Scottie Scheffler is making headlines not only for his historic 36-hole lead, a feat last achieved by Tiger Woods, but also for his choice of equipment, notably the TaylorMade Qi10 Tour Issue driver paired with a Fujikura Ventus Black 7X shaft, which aids his powerful and consistent shots. Meanwhile, a beloved fixture at Royal Portrush has captured attention: the famous bench on the sixth tee, which has become a viral symbol during this year's Open. The bench, inscribed to honor Jim McDowell's 70th birthday, represents camaraderie and friendship, values deeply embedded in golf. Jim McDowell, who played regularly with a group of friends at Royal Portrush, was surprised with the bench's installation by his golfing community, chosen for its picturesque location by the course secretary. The bench has become a cherished spot for players like Rory McIlroy, Scheffler, and Jon Rahm to rest, and continues to be a source of fond memories and stories among golfers and McDowell's family. The ongoing visits by McDowell's daughters underscore the lasting legacy of friendship and community that the bench symbolizes at the Open.