McIlroy didn't play his best Thursday at Royal Portrush but shot 1-under 70 and is three shots off the 18-hole lead.

Rory McIlroy came close to finishing among the leaders in the first round of the Open, but the back nine proved it can be a tough challenge for anyone.

Matt Fitzpatrick in five-way tie for the lead at The Open; Scottie Scheffler one back and Rory McIlroy three behind at Royal Portrush alongside Jon Rahm and Shane Lowry; Watch the second round live on Friday from 6.

The Open Championship got underway at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Co. Antrim on Thursday and Rory McIlroy has been welcomed back in classic Paddy Power style. The Irish bookmaker, notorious for displaying gag signs at major sporting events,

The final men's major of the year is here, as the 2025 British Open Championship kicks off Thursday morning at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland.

Rory McIlroy Sends Clear Message on The Open originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Ahead of the Open Championship this week in his homeland Rory McIlroy has dawned his newly won Green Jacket at Royal Portrush.

Rory McIlroy returns home to Northern Ireland as the fans want to see him end a more special year on a spectacular note.