It was a return six years in the making, and it was a return that perfectly encapsulated Rory McIlroy. Making the trek back to Royal Portrush for The Open Championship -- now as a career grand slam winner -- the Northern Irishman experienced a topsy-turvy day as the hard stuff came easy and the easy stuff came hard.

Scottie Scheffler made eight birdies on another wild afternoon of weather at Royal Portrush to build a one-shot lead at the Open Championship heading into the weekend.

Scottie Scheffler, the No. 1-ranked golfer in the world, is looking for his fourth major win — and first at the British Open. The two-time Masters winner and 2025 PGA Championship winner has yet to claim either of the U.

Xander Schauffele will look to defend his British Open title against a field led by Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler when the 153rd Open Championship begins at Royal Portrush on Thursday.