Rory McIlroy is one of just six men to have won golf's career Grand Slam

McIlroy’s Historic 61 at Portrush Still Inspires Ahead of The Open

“It was just unbelievable.” Those are the words of Aaron O’Callaghan, one of the few witnesses to Rory McIlroy’s record-breaking round of 61 at Royal Portrush 20 years ago.

At just 16 years old, McIlroy stunned the golfing world by setting a new course record on the famed Dunluce Links, a feat that continues to inspire as he returns to Portrush this week for the 153rd Open Championship.

The Day McIlroy Took Centre Stage

In July 2005, McIlroy, already tipped as a prodigy, played with a calm confidence that belied his years.

Front nine: Three under par
Back nine: An eagle at 10 and five consecutive birdies to finish
Final score: 61, eclipsing the previous record by three strokes

“The more people gathered, the more Rory thrived. He wasn’t showing off, he was just in the zone,” said O’Callaghan.

Even Randal Evans, the previous record holder, described McIlroy as “oozing confidence” as he sealed his historic round with a trademark fist pump.

From Local Star to Global Icon

Fast forward two decades and McIlroy is now a five-time major champion. Yet, Portrush has been a site of both triumph and heartbreak:

2005: Sets course record at age 16
2019: Misses The Open cut after an opening-round 79
2025: Returns chasing major number six

“Portrush bit back in 2019. But Rory’s Rory – he’ll fix that this time around,” said Evans.

Can McIlroy Win Major No.6 at Home?

McIlroy’s career has been defined by resilience. From his 2011 Masters collapse to his emotional near-miss at Portrush in 2019, fans have seen both his brilliance and his humanity.

Now 36, the Northern Irishman arrives at Royal Portrush in search of another defining moment.

“He was a superstar in the making that day in 2005. Now he’s ready to show it again,” said O’Callaghan.