By the time Rory McIlroy finished his first practice round for the British Open at Royal Portrush, a big crowd that weathered rain and sunshine was waiting to see him finish.

The Open returns to Royal Portrush this week, six years on from the last time the major was held at the iconic golf club. The Dunluce Links Course is going to provide a tough test for the

When Rory McIlroy arrived at Royal Portrush six years ago it was meant to be a glorious homecoming for Northern Ireland's most famous sportsman but his British Open hopes lasted only two rounds.

Rory McIlroy Sends Clear Message on The Open originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Rory McIlroy returns home to Northern Ireland as the fans want to see him end a more special year on a spectacular note.

Masters champion Rory McIlroy speaks to BBC Sport NI's Stephen Watson before the Open Championship at Royal Portrush. Watch: McIlroy 'can't wait to get going' at Portrush. Video, 00:02:42Watch: McIlroy 'can't wait to get going' at Portrush Up Next.

Fans were still trickling onto the grounds and no other player was within sight as McIlroy plotted his way around a golf course where he still owns the course record -- a 61 when he was just 16 years old.