Scheffler had a 15-foot putt that was one turn away from dropping for a final birdie. He happily settled for a 7-under 64, his lowest round in a major, to take a one-shot lead over former U.S. Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick of England.

Rory McIlroy will be roared on in his homeland as the 153rd British Open gets underway at Royal Portrush on Thursday as world number one Scottie Scheffler seeks his first Claret Jug.The world number three has not won a tournament since lifting the Claret Jug a year ago and has not even managed a top-five finish in 12 tournaments this year.

Scottie Scheffler took something unforgettable from his first round with Tiger Woods. Years later it's become his superpower.

Scottie Scheffler has padded his lead at 18 under through 36 holes after a long weather delay at his hometown PGA Tour event, the CJ Cup Byron Nelson.

Rory McIlroy chases a major victory in Northern Ireland and Scottie Scheffler is the pre-tournament favourite at Royal Portrush; Xander Schauffele is defending champion and Tommy Fleetwood is among the English hopes;