If McIlroy didn’t quite deliver, then Royal Portrush — where he shot 61 as a 16-year-old for the course record — certainly did, gaining widespread rave reviews.

Rory McIlroy's legion of fans came in hope more than expectation to the final day of the British Open at Royal Portrush.

McIlroy could not reproduce his Saturday magic to catch Scottie Scheffler, but he still achieved a level of redemption at his home Open

Viewed from the fairway, Rory McIlroy's eagle on the 12th hole Saturday was captivating theater. It seemed too slow for the longest time as it trickled to the ridge just a few feet from the hole, but it hit the downslope at the perfect speed.

Rory McIlroy didn’t leave Portrush with the Claret Jug under his arm Sunday night, but he was a winner nonetheless at the 153rd British Open.