The 153rd Open Championship has kicked off at Royal Portrush Golf Course in Northern Ireland, with Rory McIlroy emerging as the early leader. The four-time major winner fired a birdie on the 17th hole to set up for a birdie on the next, taking him one stroke ahead of the pack.
Scottie Scheffler and Justin Leonard also had impressive rounds, with Scheffler scoring an early birdie and Leonard chipping in for a birdie on the 3rd hole. Meanwhile, Justin Fitzpatrick tied McIlroy at the top after a clutch chip-in on the 16th.
The highly anticipated tournament is taking place amidst heavy rain expected late Thursday. The competition will be fierce with Xander Schauffele defending his title and other major winners like J.J. Spaun and Scottie Scheffler also competing for the championship.
Source: https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/45761144/2025-open-championship-best-shots-moments-first-round-royal-portrush