Rory McIlroy has vowed that “the story isn’t over” as he returns to Royal Portrush for the Open Championship, with the Northern Irishman ready to embrace the fervent local support that welcomed him back. The 36-year-old, who made history earlier this year by winning the Masters and completing a career grand slam, is determined to make the most of the adulation this week.
A Return to Portrush: Embracing the Attention
This marks McIlroy’s first return to the course since 2019, when he struggled to deal with the overwhelming cheers on the first tee, leading to an early mishap that saw him miss the cut. However, McIlroy is approaching this year’s event with a different mindset.
“I think it’s better for everyone if I embrace it,” McIlroy said on Monday. “It’s nice to be able to accept adulation, even though I struggle with it at times. But it’s also nice for the person that is seeing you for the first time in a few years. It just makes for a better interaction and not trying to hide away from it.”
A Changed Mentality Since 2019
Reflecting on his 2019 experience, McIlroy recalled the intense atmosphere as he walked to the first tee, surprised by the massive ovation he received from the crowd. “It brought its own sort of pressure,” he said. “I didn’t mentally prepare for that day or that week, and I learned pretty quickly that one of my challenges, especially in a week like this, is controlling myself and that internal battle.”
Now, McIlroy is focused on managing that pressure and using it as motivation. “The battle on the last day at the Masters wasn’t with Augusta National or Bryson DeChambeau. The battle that day was with myself,” McIlroy explained, indicating he has regained his focus and mental strength.
McIlroy’s Strong Start to the Open
Despite only getting four hours of sleep, McIlroy spent Monday morning playing 18 holes at Royal Portrush, showing his commitment to getting ready for the tournament. With a renewed sense of motivation, he is determined to make his mark in the 153rd Open Championship, an event he had circled on his calendar for 2025.
McIlroy’s confidence and focus are clear as he heads into the competition, promising to embrace the support and make the most of the opportunity in front of him. The story, as he says, is far from over.
