Rory McIlroy shot 1 under Thursday at Royal Portrush, a better start than the first time he played the British Open at the Northern Ireland course near home.

Here's what to know about McIlroy's roots, from his hometown and upbringing, to his young golf career before he emerged as one of the best players in the world. McIlroy was born in Holywood, County Down, Northern Ireland in 1989. His father was also from Holywood, while his mother was from Lurgan, County Armagh.

Rory McIlroy fought hard against errors in his game to card a one-under-par opening round at Royal Portrush, sitting just three shots back of the lead in The Open Championship

The hometown hero is back at Royal Portrush, but Rory McIlroy was poor off the tee again as the Open Championship rolls on.

Rory McIlroy had a singular pursuit. Visit his hometown of Holywood, in Northern Ireland, and you leave knowing the truth of that.

Rory McIlroy is currently playing in The Open Championship at Royal Portrush. A popular LIV golfer ended up previewing the Northern Irishman's start at this prestigious golf major.

McIlroy starts British Open bid with rollercoaster 70 * Bogeys first hole before fighting back * Northern Irishman bidding for second British Open title (Adds more quotes) By Martyn Herman PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland,

Rory McIlroy attended the Association of Golf Writers dinner on Tuesday evening and was decked out in green — Masters green.