The unlikely shot that told Rory McIlroy he’s back in business at the US Open

At the 16th, his tee shot had left him with 198 yards to the hole and he moved it to within 18 feet

Rory McIlroy plays his shot from the 12th tee during the first round of the US Open. Picture: Jamie Squire/Getty Images

It was a shot that will not feature on any highlight reels from Winged Foot of this first round of the 120th US Open but it told Rory McIlroy he has finally turned the corner after a summer of on-course frustration.

It was not a killer drive, or a monster putt, nor did it even lead to a birdie on a day when McIlroy shot a three-under-par 67, his lowest opening round in a major championship since a 66 in each his 2014 victories at The Open and PGA Championships.