Rory McIlroy runs into Nick Faldo during Birkdale scouting trip

Rory McIlroy visited Royal Birkdale in Southport, England on Thursday as part of his scouting preparation for The Open Championship, scheduled for July 16-19. The visit came just days after McIlroy finished tied for 32nd at the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. During his reconnaissance trip, McIlroy encountered six-time major champion Nick Faldo at the historic links course.