Rory McIlroy looked like a man subjugated by the weight of the world.

Determined to be better prepared than when he faceplanted in front of the home fans at Royal Portrush in 2019, McIlroy began this 153 rd Open with a 1-under 70 – nine strokes better than six years ag...

"I really hope Rory plays well," Jonathan Lee, who grew up in neighbouring Portstewart, said as he joined the throng following the final practice rounds.

However, instead of blocking them out, ignoring them and pretending they are not there, McIlroy has made a concerted effort to embrace it all -- the fans, the good shots, the bad shots and everything...