Joe Dean won the inaugural Last Chance Qualifier at Royal Birkdale on July 13, posting a two-under-par round of 68 to claim the final spot in the 154th Open Championship [1, 2, 3]. The tournament, starting Thursday at Royal Birkdale, marks the venue's 11th time hosting the Open [2, 3].
Ranked 268th in the world, Dean overcame a field of 12 players to earn his place in one of golf’s premier events [1]. He turned professional in 2016, made the cut in his Open debut at Birkdale in 2017, but subsequently fell down the rankings [1, 2, 3]. While rebuilding his career, Dean worked as a supermarket delivery driver for Morrisons [1, 2, 3].
A runner-up finish at the 2024 Kenya Open helped Dean secure full-time status on the DP World Tour again [1, 2, 3]. He will start the Open playing alongside 2016 champion Henrik Stenson and American Max Homa for the first two rounds [1].
Dean faces challenges securing accommodation for the event, as Southport hotels are fully booked. "We were fortunate to get a hotel room last night, but everywhere else is booked," he said, joking that he might have to pitch a tent next to the putting green or sleep in his car [1, 2, 3].
Despite the packed schedule, Dean looks forward to the Open. He plans to marry his caddie, Emily, the Tuesday after the tournament ends on August 18. "A week off would have made the wedding a bit easier, but the Open is a good excuse to liven things up," he said [1, 2, 3].
The 154th Open Championship begins on August 10 at Royal Birkdale, where Dean will compete among the world's top players and seek to advance in the championship.
