For some, golf is a path to spiritual enlightenment. For Sadom Kaewkanjana, spiritual enlightenment is a path to golf. Kaewkanjana, of Thailand, isn't just an accomplished professional golfer; he's an ordained Buddhist monk.

Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana holds a fascinating distinction at this week’s British Open. No, not being one of the players at 3-under par and one shot out of the lead after. The 27-year-old Kaewkanjana is the only Buddhist monk in the field this week.

Possibly the only time Sadom Kaewkanjana’s heart rate spiked over the first round at the Open Championship on Thursday was when he drove the green at the eye-catching par-4 fifth at Royal Portrush and drained a 23-foot eagle putt.

Phil Mickelson and Lee Westwood are offering reminders that the British Open doesn't discriminate against older players.

Maybe it's just one round, but Thursday at The Open, 50-somethings Lee Westwood and Phil Mickelson shot under par.

Jacob Skov Olesen and Haotong Li held the early Thursday lead at 4 under while Mickelson, 55, had his lowest opening round in an Open since 2016.

On banners and flags and buntings of grandstands there are images of the claret jug, a reminder of what's at stake at the British Open. But add this to the list of what makes golf's oldest championship so distinct from the other majors: Every year it feels like a new experience.

The Open Championship is the oldest golf tournament in the world, and the final men’s major championship of the season.