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Rory McIlroy warned to be ‘concerned’ after day three weather forecast for The Open released

Originally posted on HITC | By Antony Martin | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 7:11 AM ET

At one point on Friday, it looked like Rory McIlroy was right in the hunt at The Open Championship.

But then Scottie Scheffler found another gear at Royal Portrush, and now the local favourite finds himself seven shots back heading into the weekend.

Speaking after his second round, McIlroy said he was feeling good about being in contention. But that was before Scheffler’s 64 changed the picture entirely. If McIlroy has any chance left, it’s a long shot.

The crowds have been behind him all week, but he hasn’t quite found top form through the first two rounds.

Weather outlook for Saturday at The Open

If he’s going to make a move, McIlroy will need something special on Saturday – likely a score in the mid-60s.

The weather forecast might make that a tough ask though. Rain is expected for most of Saturday morning and afternoon at Royal Portrush.

How weather could influence Rory McIlroy’s chase at The Open

McIlroy will need to come out strong on Saturday, making early birdies to close the gap on the leaders.

The weather in Portrush is expected to be favourable, which could help him make a fast start. But that same forecast might not work in his favour.

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Golf journalist Ryan Lavner discussed this on the Golf Channel Podcast with Rex and Lav, explaining why the conditions might actually hinder McIlroy’s chances.

Lavner explained: “I just looked at the forecast. On Saturday it’s going to be temperatures of around 70 degrees, it is going to be cloudy and the winds are not going to be that high. About 10 to 15mph. Which when you are playing links golf it’s not that detrimental or prohibitive.

“That is going to lead to even better scoring than what we score in the second round. That has to make Rory McIlroy think a bit worried because everyone is basically playing this golf course the exact same way.”

Why the weather might not be an issue for Rory McIlroy at The Open

There’s another angle to consider here. McIlroy needs to get off to a fast start, ideally picking up several birdies early on. If he can do that, it should put at least some pressure on Scheffler.

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But if the weather turns and conditions get tough, it will be harder for McIlroy to eat into Scheffler’s lead before the leader even gets going.

From my perspective, the forecast for Saturday could actually work in McIlroy’s favour. The real question is whether he’ll be able to take advantage of it and play the kind of golf needed to close the gap.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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