At the time, they could not have known, but they were about to create what would become the only golf course outside Great Britain to host The Open Championship not once, but three times. As we approach the 153rd Open Championship,

Rory McIlroy came close to finishing among the leaders in the first round of the Open, but the back nine proved it can be a tough challenge for anyone.

From their magnificent mansions to the world's best hotels the likes of Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau are accustomed to the finer things in life. You may think these guys have to slum it slightly when they are on the course but that couldn't be further from the truth at the 153rd Open.

Rory McIlroy's genius on the golf course was summed up by how frustrated he previously left rival Jason Day as they both vie for victory at The Open Championship this week

The Open Championship got underway at Royal Portrush Golf Club in Co. Antrim on Thursday and Rory McIlroy has been welcomed back in classic Paddy Power style. The Irish bookmaker, notorious for displaying gag signs at major sporting events,

Follow live as golf’s oldest major begins at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland with all eyes on local star Rory McIlroy

Yes. McIlroy debuted at the 2007 British Open as a low amateur. Since then, he has managed one win at the final golf major of the year. McIlroy finally completed the feat at the 2014 British Open, when the tournament was held at the Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Holylake, England.

While Rory McIlroy’s Masters triumph earned him a long-awaited career grand slam, a home Open Championship win at Royal Portrush could be even more emotion for the North Irishman.