Rory opened his account in the 139th Open Championship over the Old Course at St Andrews with a sizzling 63 on day one which equalled the record for the lowest score in a major championship.

On day two, hampered by excessive windy conditions, Rory added a round of 80 which left him at one under par for the Championship. Playing in less windy conditions on Saturday Rory was back on song and shot 69 leaving him on four under par going into the last round on Sunday.

On the final day Rory shot a four under par 68 leaving him on eight under par for the tournament.

"I couldn't stop thinking about Friday going up the last hole, it's definitely one I let get away from me", said McIlroy, "I just didn't deal with the conditions very well on Friday and that was the most disappointing thing about the week".

"I came out on Saturday and Sunday and my wind play was a lot better, I played better shots and I'm happy with the way I finished this weekend".

ISM stablemate Louis Oosthuizen took the Open Championship title by seven shots on the score of sixteen under par - Lee Westwood was second on nine under par.