Alker leads Senior Open after a 63

Steven Alker made a triumphant return to Sunningdale Golf Club, firing a flawless seven-under-par 63 on Thursday to grab the first-round lead at the 2025 Senior British Open in Berkshire, England.

The 53-year-old Kiwi, who turns 54 on Monday, is eyeing his second senior major title, three years after his breakthrough win at the 2022 Senior PGA Championship. Alker’s round included six birdies and a perfectly executed eagle on the par-5 12th, setting the pace in a competitive field packed with big names and past champions.

“I was just efficient today,” Alker said. “Drove it in the fairway when I needed to, my irons were solid, and I made some key putts — especially on the back nine. That bogey on 7 kind of woke me up. After that, I found my rhythm and just kept it going.”

Alker’s lone blemish on the day was that bogey on the par-4 7th, but he rebounded quickly, picking up momentum as he made the turn. He credited his patience and course management for staying in control throughout the round.

“It’s a course where positioning matters. You can’t overpower it — you’ve got to think your way around, and that suits me,” he added.

Australia’s Mark Hensby trails by just one stroke after carding a solid six-under 64, keeping the pressure on the leader. Meanwhile, defending champion K.J. Choi of South Korea opened with a four-under 66 to stay within striking distance, tied for third with American Doug Barron and Scotland’s Paul Lawrie.

For Alker, this week’s venue holds special significance. It’s his first competitive round at Sunningdale since the late 1980s, when he played in a boys’ amateur championship — an experience that left a lasting impression.

“It’s been a long time,” he said with a grin. “But honestly, it hasn’t changed much. I recognized about five holes right away. I just love the walk here — it’s one of those special places in golf. The energy is good, the vibes are good, and that definitely helps.”

Now a regular contender on the senior circuit, Alker has quietly put together one of the most consistent resumes in recent years. He was the Charles Schwab Cup champion in 2022 and has remained in solid form since.