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Rory McIlroy is currently playing in The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. A popular LIV golfer ended up previewing the Northern Irishman's start at this prestigious golf major.
McIlroy's hunt for the Claret Jug started as the golfer teed off alongside Justin Thomas and Tommy Fleetwood around 10.10 am EST. As he prepares to clinch the Open Championship title for a second time, Graeme McDowell has spoken his mind.
While talking about Rory McIlroy, the LIV Golfer said that it might get hard for McIlroy to concentrate amid his home support.
"...today is a massive day for Rory... the emotions, the celebratory nature of kind of the way the crowds are going to feel about him today, it's going to make it difficult for him to focus and play golf," McDowell said on Sky Sports.
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McDowell also talked about how Rory McIlroy has come to fight for the Claret Jug at Royal Portrush, and he will have a good round if he can control his mindset.
"I think today is a massive round if he can manage those emotions because at the end of the day, he's not here to celebrate, he's here to compete in the Open Championship...," he added.
Sky Sports Golf shared the full clip of McDowell talking about Rory McIlroy via a post on their X account. Take a look:
As of this writing, the career grand slam winner has just played the first three holes of The Open Championship Round 1. McIlroy started the first round on Thursday with a bogey on par 4 hole 1 of Dunluce Links.
Following that, Rory McIlroy secured an impressive birdie while playing on par 5 hole 2. He scored a par in the par 3 hole 3, and after three holes, McIlroy stands at an even par total.
Rory McIlroy shares his views regarding his game before The Open Championship
McIlroy has had a tough time following his Masters win in Augusta earlier this year. The golfer has gone through ups and downs, especially at the PGA Championship and US Open.
Three days ago, Rory McIlroy talked about his view regarding how prepared he was to compete for the Claret Jug. While talking to the press, McIlroy referred to his recent performance (quoted by ASAP Sports):
"I'm certainly encouraged by how I've played the last two starts, especially last week in Scotland..."
The Holywood native recorded a T6 at the Travelers Championship and a runner-up at the Genesis Scottish Open before coming to Royal Portrush.
"I'm excited with where my game is. I felt like I showed some really good signs last week. I feel like I'm in a good spot... last week was a pure preparation week, but I definitely feel like it put me in a good spot heading into here."
McIlroy is making his 16th attempt at the 153rd Open Championship. His records at this major include one victory, one runner-up up and seven top 10s.
