McIlroy shot an opening 4-under 66 that featured six birdies and long drives. "I certainly can tidy a few things up," he said, "but overall a decent day.”

Tough conditions showed Rory McIlroy what Philadelphia Cricket Club was meant to be and what it could be again with a rolled-back ball.

Stoll and Poppy were at Augusta National last month to celebrate McIlroy as he completed a career Grand Slam with a playoff victory over Justin Rose to win his first-ever Masters.

Rory McIlroy has been on a tear of late headed into next weekend's PGA Championship. Going back to last November, he won the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

The McIlroy household is looking at a major life change in the near future, which eradicates any notion that the marriage is not healthy.

McIlroy signed off by describing Quail Hollow as one of his favourite places in the world. Diamond presumably agreed. There followed another win here last year, putting his foot on Xander Schauffele’s throat with a storming Sunday finish to win by five shots.

Shane Lowry admits he's been inspired by Rory McIlroy's persistence as he seeks his first solo win for more than two-and-a-half years in the $20 million Truist Championship in Philadelphia.