Five players tied for the lead at 4-under 67, the largest logjam after 18 holes of the British Open since there was a six-way tie in 1938.

McIlroy, playing with Justin Thomas and Tommy Fleetwood, is one of the early starters in Friday’s second round and sits just three shots behind the leaders overnight, with world No 1 Scottie Scheffler,

Scottie Scheffler closed out a great Thursday round with two birdies at the Open Championship despite a dismal driver day at Royal Portrush.

Scottie Scheffler is the No. 1 golfer in the world, but even he doesn't really understand the fuss. Just two days before the year's final major tees off, Scheffler admitted he doesn't understand "the point" of becoming the best golfer in the world - or an elite professional in any sport,