World No.354 Olesen steps up for shock Round 1 lead

You just can't fight destiny. If something is meant to happen, it will... like Denmark's Jacob Skov Olesen and Major championships.

- Joy Chakravarty

The 26-year-old is surprisingly on top of the leaderboard in Royal Portrush after the morning wave of players in the opening round Thursday, shooting a four-under 67 despite a bogey on his 18th hole.

The left-hander played like he belonged at this big stage, having only turned professional last year after securing one of the last cards from the DP World Tour's Qualifying School.

The decision to turn pro was a difficult one, particularly after winning the 2024 Amateur Championship, which was held down the road in Ireland at the Ballyliffin Golf Club. That win-the first by a Danish amateur — secured him invitations to this year's Masters and the 152nd Open at Royal Troon (he finished tied 60th last year), the only caveat being that he remains an amateur.