Rory McIlroy toils at British Open as putting woes leave him 7 shots off the first-round lead

Rory McIlroy struggled in the first round of the 2026 British Open at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England on July 16, shooting a 2-over 72. His putting woes were a significant factor in his disappointing round, leaving him 7 shots off the first-round lead. McIlroy's frustration was evident through his body language on the course, though he refrained from verbal outbursts.