Rory McIlroy is back where it all unraveled in 2019 — but this time, he’s different. Returning to Royal Portrush for The Open Championship, the Northern Irishman is carrying not just the weight of hometown expectations, but also a clear sense of mental clarity and personal growth.
McIlroy’s last Open at Portrush ended in heartbreak. A disastrous opening round saw him miss the cut in front of an emotionally charged home crowd. But ahead of this year’s championship, he’s taken a proactive approach: arriving early, beating the fan frenzy, and setting the tone with a bold, confident media appearance.
“I’m embracing it this time,” McIlroy said. “In 2019, I tried to shut it out. That didn’t work. I’ve learned to let it in without letting it overwhelm me.”
Fresh off a runner-up finish at the Genesis Scottish Open — where he lost by just two shots to Chris Gotterup — McIlroy appears to be in top form. He credited his recent break from golf, following a disappointing U.S. Open loss, for helping him mentally reset. His return included a noticeable change: a new, cleaner haircut that made headlines and symbolized a fresh mindset.
“I feel lighter, in every sense,” he told reporters. “Sometimes you need to step away and look at the bigger picture. I’ve done that.”
McIlroy has also reestablished control over his narrative. At Monday’s press conference, he opened with a decisive statement before any questions were asked, a calculated move that reflected both maturity and intent: “Control the story before the story controls you.”
This week, McIlroy will tee off alongside Justin Thomas and Tommy Fleetwood in a high-profile group. He is among the bookmakers’ favorites to win, listed just behind Scottie Scheffler. With his game trending upward and his mind clearer than it’s been in months, McIlroy could be poised for a powerful redemption story on home soil.
The weight of Portrush may still be present, but this time, Rory McIlroy looks ready to carry it.
