Rory McIlroy arrived at Royal Birkdale for the second round of the British Open, hoping to take advantage of more favorable morning conditions as he aims to reignite his shot at the tournament.
The Masters champion finished the first round two over par, seven strokes behind surprise American leader Jackson Suber, but found Thursday afternoon’s play particularly difficult due to stronger winds and rougher greens.
advertisement
Looking back on his 1972 round where he struggled with his putting, McIlroy expressed optimism for the day ahead.
“It’s not that far away. If you look at the difference between this morning’s score and this afternoon’s score, it looks like it’s going to be reversed again depending on the conditions,” he said.
“I hope to take advantage of the calm conditions in the morning and get back into shape by hitting a shot at 1 under.”
McIlroy struggled to hide his frustration on opening day (PA Wire)
Although the sky was cloudier than on the first day, competitors who got an early start were prepared to benefit from a slight easterly wind and early morning dew, which promised a more forgiving course.
advertisement
Among the players who teed off early with McIlroy were playing partner Matt Fitzpatrick, also 2-over, and 2024 champion Xander Schauffele, 1-over.
U.S. PGA Championship winner Aaron Rye (1 over) and U.S. Open champion Windham Clark (3 over) were also in the early group.
An early sign of improved scoring ability came from Tiger Christensen, who birdied his first two holes after the 6:35 a.m. start and moved up to 3-over.
Meanwhile, world No. 115 Suber, who had a career-best finish of fourth at last month’s Canadian Open, teed off at 7:30 a.m. and took an early chance to prove his impressive opening 65 was no fluke.
advertisement
Many other players will also be fantasizing about the chance to join the Claret Jug fray after a solid opening round.
Bryson DeChambeau was tied for fourth at 3 under, but home favorites Tommy Fleetwood and Tyrrell Hatton were just two shots behind at 1 under. Jon Rahm also joined the team. Although he has won two majors, he has never lifted the Claret Jug, and his best finish at the British Open was a tie for second in 2023.
