McIlroy and DeChambeau’s Open Championship Trials: Train Track Mishaps and Grueling Beginnings

Just a month ago, Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau were battling it out at the US Open in North Carolina. However, as they trudged through the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon in Scotland on Thursday, their recent showdown felt like a distant memory.

The US Open champion DeChambeau and runner-up McIlroy started poorly at the tournament, with DeChambeau carding a five-over 76 and McIlroy a 78, falling far behind the leaders.

McIlroy, aiming to overcome the heartbreak of yet another near-miss at Pinehurst No. 2, began the day evenly through his first seven holes. But his round started to fall apart at the famed "Postage Stamp" eighth hole. McIlroy’s ball, which seemed to have settled on the green of the 118-yard par-three, rolled into a bunker. He struggled to escape, leading to a double bogey. His difficulties continued with an out-of-bounds drive at the par-four 11th that ended up on the train tracks beside the fairway, followed by more bogeys at the 15th and final holes.

“The course was really challenging,” McIlroy, the world No. 2, said. “The wind was unlike what we’ve faced so far this week … I didn’t adapt well.”

McIlroy’s tough day echoed his frustration from the US Open, where he fell short by missing putts on the last two holes. After finishing tied-fourth at the Scottish Open, McIlroy faces a significant challenge just to make the cut at the Open Championship, let alone add to the Claret Jug he won in 2014.

DeChambeau fared slightly better in his bid for a second consecutive major title but struggled with the weather and his equipment. He faced a tough double bogey at the par-five sixth hole, the longest in championship history. Despite a rough start, he managed a stunning 54-foot eagle putt on the 16th, followed by two pars.

“I’m proud of how I kept going,” DeChambeau said. “I could have given up after nine holes, but I’ve got a chance tomorrow and I’m excited for it.”

Known as "The Scientist" for his innovative approach, DeChambeau attributed his struggles to equipment issues, saying the golf ball wasn’t performing as expected in the cold and wet conditions. He remains optimistic about adjusting and performing better.

Justin Thomas, who shot an impressive three-under 68, leads by eight shots. Despite recent struggles, Thomas looked like his former world No. 1 self with seven birdies.

“I just want to keep playing well,” Thomas said. “I feel like things are starting to turn around, though it’s been a tough stretch.”