McIlroy aims for Portrush revival after disappointing US Open performance
Rocky Rory Readies for Royal Portrush
Look out, golf world, here comes Rory McIlroy, ready to conquer his home turf at the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush. The second-ranked golfer, fresh off a career Grand Slam win at the Masters, is gearing up for a major title showdown that's been decade-long in the making.
His recent stint at the PGA Championship wasn't his finest hour—a final-round 67 on Sunday left him seven-over par 287 at Oakmont—but he's not sweating it. "I ended this week with a bit of a positive note," he says, looking ahead to Portrush.
With the PGA Travelers Championship and the Scottish Open on his calendar, McIlroy is primed to make his move. He's more than excited about stepping foot back in Ireland, especially considering the opportunity to play in front of his adoring crowd. "I'm really looking forward to it," he beams, "To celebrate with them on Sunday night with the Claret Jug and the green jacket."
Post-Masters triumph, McIlroy's game has been a rollercoaster ride. The impact of completing his 11-year quest for the career slam took some toll on his performance, leaving him seeking new challenges. "I climbed my Everest in April... An Open at Portrush is certainly one of those," he reveals.
Motivation won't be a problem. "If I can't get motivated for an Open Championship at home, then I don't know what can motivate me," McIlroy asserts. But getting mentally prepared is key, something he acknowledges he's struggled with lately. "I probably haven't been there the last few weeks. Getting home and having a couple weeks off before that, hopefully feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, will get me in the right place again."
Family life doesn't slow him down. McIlroy and his loved ones have recently settled into a new home in London, but he's excited to escape European shores for a bit, especially since his Masters victory will be his first time out in public back home. "It should be a really nice week," he enthuses.
McIlroy has a history with Royal Portrush that goes beyond the course record he set at 16. The 2019 Open at Portrush saw mixed fortunes, with an early stumble and a missed cut. But the emotional impact of playing in front of his fellow countrymen didn't go unnoticed. "I didn't realize how emotional I was going to be at Portrush... I need to just get myself in the right frame of mind to feel those feelings again."
Driver woes stemming from an out-of-compliance club before the PGA Championship tested his game, but McIlroy's drive looked solid at Oakmont. He's hopeful that his stellar driving performance throughout the tournament is a sign of things to come. "I've driven the ball well all week... Physically I feel like my game is there. It's just mentally getting myself in the right frame of mind to get the best out of myself." © 2025 AFP
Rory McIlroy, eager to capture a major title on his home soil, has golf's attention as he prepares for the 2025 Open Championship at Royal Portrush. With his love for the game burning as bright as ever, McIlroy plans to showcase his skills on the links, potentially taking the sport by storm in Portrush.
