McIlroy’s tee-off time on Sunday will be 2.20pm alongside Matt Fitzpatrick, followed closely by Scheffler and China’s Haotong Li at 2.30pm. On Saturday, McIlroy admitted it would be a serious challenge to close a six-shot gap with Scheffler.

McIlroy has used two caddies during his professional golf career. His first was named J.P. Fitzgerald, who he had on his bag until 2017. McIlroy then switched to Harry Diamond, who has been his caddie over the last eight years.

Rory McIlroy safely made the cut for the Open Championship at Royal Portrush, but he wasn't considered a legit contender. That all changed in the blink of an eye this afternoon. After carding a 2-under 69 in the second round,

Rory McIlroy (2.20pm tee time) has already achieved that last feat and is lurking ominously in a tie for fourth position on eight-under, six strokes behind leader Scheffler. "I've come here really just trying to embrace it," said McIlroy after round three.

Home favourite Rory McIlroy birdied three of his first four holes to mount a third-round charge as world number Scottie Scheffler maintained his British Open lead in perfect scoring conditions on Saturday.

Rory McIlroy entered the third round of the Open Championship trailing leader Scottie Scheffler by seven shots.After the first four holes of his round, though, the Northern Irishman sat just four shots back and looked to be on his way to a miraculous round of golf.

Bookmark this play if Rory McIlroy is in the mix this weekend for the claret jug. McIlroy overcame a shaky driver to turn in a one-under 70 Thursday at Royal Portrush and opened his second round with a birdie.

Justin Thomas claimed he hated Rory McIlroy for 18 holes when they were pitted against each other at the 2018 Ryder Cup, with the pair also being grouped together this week at the Open Championship