Rory McIlroy Returns to Royal Portrush with Hometown Hopes Riding High

Posted : 17 July 2025

On Wednesday, the galleries were packed five rows deep around the ninth green at Royal Portrush, with chants of "Bring it home, Rory" echoing along the scenic Causeway Coast. This outpouring of support was not even for a competitive round—it was a practice session ahead of the 153rd edition of The Open Championship.

When Rory McIlroy tees off at 3:10 p.m. on Thursday, the volume is expected to surge. Should he go on to lift the Claret Jug on Sunday, the celebration may be loud enough to reach Hollywood—his hometown in Northern Ireland, not California. This year's Open marks Portrush’s second time hosting the major in six years and only the third time in its history, the previous being in 1951. Approximately 280,000 spectators are expected throughout the week, the majority there to cheer on McIlroy.

Fans remember McIlroy’s brilliance as a 16-year-old when he carded a course-record 61 on the Dunluce Links—though the course has since undergone changes. “I really hope Rory plays well,” said Jonathan Lee from nearby Portstewart. “He has history here, but I just hope the pressure of playing at home doesn’t get to him.”

Crowds more fitting for a major final than a practice round followed McIlroy as he worked through the front nine on Wednesday. They groaned when he missed a putt and erupted in cheers when he sank one. Although he didn’t play a full round that day, having already completed 18 holes on both Monday and Tuesday, McIlroy spent extra time near the ninth hole signing autographs for a throng of young fans eager for a moment with their hero.

McIlroy’s last Open appearance at Portrush ended in heartbreak when he missed the cut after a disastrous opening round of 79. This time, he returns as the reigning Masters champion, aiming to complete a dream year with a second Open title, 11 years after his first at Royal Liverpool.

However, managing the weight of expectation may prove a challenge. Fellow Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell expressed concern over how McIlroy will handle the emotional burden. “I think Rory has too much emotion to deal with this week,” McDowell told Sky Sports. “I hope he competes, but the pressure and weight of a nation make it an uphill battle.”

Rory McIlroy Returns to Royal Portrush with Hometown Hopes Riding High

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics