Rory McIlroy on Donald Trump’s Doonbeg arrival: ‘I was trying to avoid making doubles at that point’

“I guess not the experience we are used to in a way,” said McIlroy.

“I think it is Air Force One's maiden voyage. So that was pretty cool. Cool to sort of see all that going on. I was trying to avoid making doubles at that point, so I was trying to concentrate on my own stuff as well.”

While he scored three birdies, three bogeys and two doubles killed his challenge. He is now two over for the tournament.

“Two doubles in the first six holes wasn't the way I wanted to start it, obviously. Yeah, a couple of wayward drives. I took a chance on 3 trying to hit driver there and get it close to the green and hit it out of bounds or lost ball, either/or.

“Then same thing on 6. Tried to get it up close to the green, had to take an unplayable and made another one there. So no momentum early. And then it was a tough enough day. Obviously, the wind was up and stuff. Yeah, just couldn't quite get it back after that.”

McIlroy will attend Trump’s dinner on Saturday night and hopes to watch his friend triumph on the final day.

“I think there is a great buzz around the tournament because Shane's up there and leading. So, yeah, hopefully he keeps it going; that would be great for Irish golf.”