Global golf superstar Rory McIlroy is accustomed to commanding enormous galleries, but even he was taken aback by the scene that greeted him on the first tee at Royal Melbourne on Thursday morning. At 7:05 am, several thousand fans – a mix of dedicated golf tragics and casual observers – had already gathered, creating an electric atmosphere for the opening round of the Australian Open.
An Unforgettable Welcome for a Golfing Icon
The reigning Masters champion and five-time major winner, playing the tournament for the first time in a decade, was paired in a marquee group with Australian stars Adam Scott and Min Woo Lee. Despite the brutally early start and difficult conditions with winds gusting over 50km/h, the crowd following the group had ballooned beyond 5,000 by the turn. McIlroy, who won the 2013 Australian Open at Royal Sydney, signed for a one-over 72 in a rollercoaster round featuring five birdies and six bogeys.
"It was great, a wonderful atmosphere, and playing with Adam and Min Woo it was unbelievable," McIlroy said. "Just really cool to see how many people were lining the fairways and framing the greens. The welcome has been so warm, it’s been a pleasure to be here." He added that the firm greens were challenging and that he felt he could have shot in the 60s, but was hopeful for better conditions over the next three days.
Smith Finds Form in Tough Conditions
Playing in the group directly behind McIlroy, Queenslander Cameron Smith enjoyed a welcome return to form. The former world No.2, who has struggled in events outside the LIV Golf circuit this year, carded a solid one-under 70 to position himself strongly for the weekend. Smith was pleased with his putting tempo on the slick surfaces, crediting the course setup for handling the fierce winds well.
"I feel like I played pretty solid, made all the putts I was supposed to make," said the 32-year-old. "It is what it is (with the wind) blowing 50Ks an hour." Smith was grouped with early leader Elvis Smylie, who shot an impressive 65, and England's Danny Willett.
Looking Ahead to the Weekend
The spectacle evoked memories of when Greg Norman and Tiger Woods dominated the Australian Open, drawing similar massive galleries. McIlroy expressed relief that his Friday tee time would be later, joking about not having to set a 4 am alarm and allowing for a proper warm-up. Fans hoping for a prime viewing spot will equally appreciate the chance to sleep in.
With the winds expected to potentially ease and the classic Royal Melbourne layout set to test the world's best, the stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Australian Open. Both McIlroy and Smith have signalled their intent to challenge, promising more excitement for the huge crowds in Melbourne.
