Rory McIlroy hails one of his best ever Open rounds

McIlroy remains in contention for a fifth major title at a windswept Royal Birkdale.

Former champion Rory McIlroy hailed one of his best rounds ever in the Open Championship after remaining in contention for a fifth major title at a windswept Royal Birkdale.

McIlroy was five over par after six holes of his opening round and seemed destined for a fourth missed cut in five events until a stern talking to from caddie JP Fitzgerald prompted a back-nine rally.