Rory McIlroy blitzed Royal Portrush’s Dunluce Links with a course-record 11-under 61 in 2005. For many, it confirmed all the hype about McIlroy.

Speaking ahead of the Scottish Open, McIlroy said that longevity was an “underappreciated” part of an athletic career, and shouted out some fellow sporting veterans such as Novak Djokovic, who just advanced to the Wimbledon semifinals at 38.

After a decade-long chase, the Northern Irishman finally completed golf's career Grand Slam at Augusta — then experienced the psychological letdown that psychologists say commonly follows the achievement of a lifelong goal.

No matter what Rory McIlroy shoots or how he handles the media spotlight, one thing that remains untouchable is his career Grand Slam. It took 11 years for the Northern Irish man to finally break through. A journey that also included the birth of his daughter Poppy, now 4 years old, and countless near-misses.

Rory McIlroy finished two-under after his opening round at the Scottish Open - a strong card considering his bogey on the opening hole - in large part thanks to a miraculous par save

Open Championship golfers and the British Open favorite to win ahead of the year's final major at Royal Portrush

Rory McIlroy is in northern Scotland for the Scottish Open, the final warm-up event ahead of The Open at St Andrews, and it's clear to see the world No. 2's star is as bright as ever

Rory McIlroy has settled into his new Wentworth mansion following a fortnight's break from competitive golf, revealing how the move from Florida has provided welcome detachment from the sport's relentless schedule.