Sport: Golf Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Rory McIlroy prepares for Open Championship at Royal Birkdale

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 25, 2026, 6:28 PM

Last updated Jun 25, 2026

Rory McIlroy prepares for Open Championship at Royal Birkdale

Summary

Rory McIlroy visited Royal Birkdale on June 25 ahead of the Open Championship set for July 16-19. Following a T-32 finish at the U.S. Open, he aims to familiarize himself with links golf conditions. During his trip, McIlroy encountered Nick Faldo, who will cover the event for Sky Sports, allowing for an informal interview on course preparation. McIlroy noted changes to Birkdale since his last visit in 2017, expressing his positive view of the course as a prime Open venue. He plans to compete in the Genesis Scottish Open the week before the Open.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•McIlroy's scouting trip occurs after the U.S. Open.
•He aims to adjust to the links golf conditions.
•Royal Birkdale hosts the Open Championship again after 2017.
•McIlroy discussed course changes with Nick Faldo.
•He will compete in the Genesis Scottish Open next week.

Latest Updates

6:28 PMYahoo Sports — Rory McIlroy runs into Nick Faldo during Birkdale scouting trip

What they're saying

"
McIlroy, just days removed from his T-32 finish at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, was at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England, on Thursday ahead of the July 16-19 Open Championship.
— Yahoo Sports

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