The child stood transfixed, overwhelmed by the moment, until reality crashed back when McIlroy had already moved 50 yards past. Panic flashed across the boy's face—had he missed his chance? He found his voice.

Reality says Rory McIlroy isn’t going to hoist the Claret Jug on the 18th hole on Sunday evening here to deafening roars from the home fans.

Rory McIlroy didn't disappoint his countrymen at Royal Portrush, and is ready to spend some more time on European soil.

Scottie Scheffler was a genius for nearly all of the week at Royal Portrush, and the result was a masterclass major performance in which the Texan essentially toyed with the field, ultimately winning by four shots while beating the next two best players in the world, No. 2 Rory McIlroy and No. 3 Xander Schauffele each by five shots.

Rory McIlroy shot 1-under 70 in the first round of the British Open at Royal Portrush that is also serving as a homecoming for the Northern Irish star.

The final day dawns at Royal Portrush as the 153rd Open Championship is set for a grandstand finish on the Dunluce Links.

Rory McIlroy was audibly frustrated by a wayward effort that all-but ended his hopes of winning The Open. McIlroy returned to the Royal Portrush Golf Club for Sunday’s final round eight