Notes: The British Open returns to Royal Portrush for the second time in six years, after having gone 68 years since the Open first went to the Northern Ireland links. Schauffele will try to become only the fourth player in the last 50 years to win the claret jug in consecutive years,

Xander Schauffele will look to defend his British Open title against a field led by Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler when the 153rd Open Championship begins at Royal Portrush on Thursday.

Rory McIlroy insists the emotion of his return to Royal Portrush for this week's British Open will not distract him from challenging for the title.

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland — Rory McIlroy practically had Royal Portrush all to himself Monday morning, but not for long. By the time he finished his first practice round for the British Open — his first time back on these links in 2,187 days — there was a big crowd that weathered rain and sunshine to see him finish.