Rory McIlroy delivered one of the most breathtaking drives in Open Championship history, sending his ball 403 yards onto the green at the 9th hole, but his putting struggles left his title hopes hanging in the balance. The Northern Irishman's round of 67, three under par, was a tale of two games: fearless driving and tentative putting.
McIlroy's Driver Dominates at Royal Liverpool
On the 414-yard par-four 9th, McIlroy unleashed a drive that flew at 190mph, landing just 11 feet from the hole. The crowd gasped as the ball compressed through the air, a sound described as one of the sweetest in sport. Yet, despite the eagle opportunity, McIlroy's putt lacked conviction, and he settled for birdie.
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This moment encapsulated his round: imperious off the tee, but inconsistent with irons and putter. He missed multiple birdie chances from 10 to 20 feet, leaving him at one under par overall. Meanwhile, Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns fired record-equalling 62s, putting pressure on the field.
Putting Woes Persist for the Four-Time Major Winner
McIlroy admitted, "I felt like I left a couple out there." His putting stroke, often a weakness in recent majors, cost him valuable strokes. Data shows he ranked outside the top 50 in strokes gained putting for the round, while his driving distance ranked first. This contrast highlights the challenge he faces heading into the weekend.
| Stat | McIlroy (Round 2) | Tournament Leaders |
|---|---|---|
| Driving Distance (avg) | 335 yards | 310 yards |
| Putts per Round | 30 | 26 |
| Fairways Hit | 71% | 75% |
| Score to Par | -3 | -10 |
Despite being six shots back, McIlroy remains optimistic. "Apart from Cam Young and Burns, there aren't too many at the top," he noted. With two rounds left, his driver could still be the weapon that propels him to a fifth major title.
Key Takeaways from McIlroy's Open Round
- Driver dominance: McIlroy's 403-yard drive was the longest of the tournament so far.
- Putting inconsistency: Missed five birdie putts inside 15 feet.
- Opportunity remains: At one under, he is within striking distance if his putter heats up.
- Competition stiff: Burns and Herbert's 62s set a high bar for the weekend.
FAQ
What was Rory McIlroy's score in Round 2 of The Open?
McIlroy shot a 67, three under par, putting him at one under for the tournament after two rounds.
How far did McIlroy drive the ball on the 9th hole?
His drive flew 403 yards, landing on the green just 11 feet from the hole.
Can McIlroy still win The Open from six shots back?
Yes, with two rounds remaining, McIlroy's powerful driving and experience give him a chance, especially if his putting improves.
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