Rory McIlroy hopes ‘benign’ conditions can get his Open challenge back on track

Rory McIlroy, the reigning Masters champion, had a difficult opening round at The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, finishing seven shots off the pace. McIlroy is hoping that more benign weather conditions in subsequent rounds will allow him to mount a comeback challenge. The deficit leaves him with significant ground to make up if he is to contend for the title.