What to Know About Joe Dean, Former Grocery Delivery Man Who Earned Final Spot in British Open 2026

Joe Dean has come a long way from barely scraping by while carving out a career on the links.

The 32-year-old earned a spot in the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale Golf Club through a Last Chance Qualifier.

Dean is a prime example of how tenuous life can be as a pro golfer on the fringes. The Associated Press' Doug Ferguson noted he began delivering groceries part time amid the COVID-19 pandemic. He continued for another four years to supplement his golf income.

"I had a great time doing it," Dean said. "Met some really good friends and grounded me really well."

He finally gained some financial security when he played his way onto the DP World Tour for 2024. He collected a little more than €1 million in prize money that year and has added another €839,000 since then.

Through 16 events in the 2026 season, Dean has two top-10 finishes and sits 67th in the Race to Dubai rankings.

The Englishman qualified for the Open Championship in 2017 and 2024. Making the cut again would guarantee him at least $38,900. Finishing 32nd or better would put his payout into the six figures.

Dean is paired with Henrik Stenson and Max Homa for the first two rounds.