Rory McIlroy praises altered Royal Birkdale ahead of Open Championship
Rory McIlroy has given a positive verdict on the newly altered Royal Birkdale course as he steps up preparations for next month’s Open Championship in Southport.
The Northern Irishman visited the Merseyside venue to scout its layout ahead of the historic major tournament, which begins on 16 July.
The 37-year-old finished tied for fourth the last time the Open was held at Birkdale in 2017, ending seven shots behind eventual champion Jordan Spieth.
During his reconnaissance trip, the six-time major winner spoke with Sir Nick Faldo about the recent modifications to the famous links.
Adapting to a new challenge
“I’ve always thought Birkdale is one of the best on the Open rota, so excited to be back.”
“It’s good. A little bit different from 2017, the last time we played an Open here. Some different green complexes, different holes.”
The reigning Masters champion highlighted specific alterations that will heavily test the world’s best golfers.
“The fifth hole I just played is completely different. I like it. A good driveable par four. A bit of a penalty if you go for it and miss.”
“I don’t know if the water is quite in play on the right but a lot of big deep bunkers guarding the green.”
Links preparation in Scotland
Before targeting a second Claret Jug, the former world number one will compete in the Genesis Scottish Open.
He previously won the event in 2023 and secured a runner-up finish last year, making it a crucial and familiar part of his schedule.
“I am going to play the Scottish Open so it will be nice to get a few reps in, get a card in my hand, do all that.”
“It’s good to get up here and play early. I’ve been trying to do that at every major championship, which is working out for me.”
This early preparation strategy has clearly paid dividends this season, following his stunning back-to-back victories at Augusta National in April.
Although he struggled to a tie for 32nd at last week’s US Open, an earlier top-10 finish at the PGA Championship proves his game remains in formidable shape.
