McIlroy Returns to Portrush for Historic Open

Rory McIlroy returns to Royal Portrush for the 153rd Open Championship after completing the Career Grand Slam by winning the Masters in April 2025, making him the sixth player in history to achieve this milestone. The tournament, beginning July 17, features five Irish golfers: McIlroy, Shane Lowry, Padraig Harrington, Tom McKibbin, and Darren Clarke. Notable pairings include McIlroy with Justin Thomas and Tommy Fleetwood, and Scottie Scheffler with Shane Lowry and Collin Morikawa. McIlroy seeks redemption after missing the cut at Portrush in 2019, and the challenging course—with its notorious first hole and pristine condition—adds to the high anticipation. Weather warnings may disrupt play. The event is broadcast on NBC, Golf Channel, Peacock, and streaming platforms.