Jon Rahm entered Thursday’s first round of the 151st Open Championship in search of his second major championship of the year. During the month of April, he won the Masters Tournament. But things did not get off to a good start, as Rahm shot a 3-over 74 in the opening round. This positions him eight shots behind the leaders, Tommy Fleetwood, Emiliano Grillo, and Christo Lamprecht, a 6-foot-8 amateur.
After completing his round, the Spaniard vented his ire and did not hold back.
“I’m trying to walk, but there are far too many people in my way, and I can’t move at my normal pace because of them,” Rahm said, visibly frustrated.
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Thursday was not the only day that the Masters champion was annoyed.
“Then I’m walking off 18 trying to cope with that unfortunate moment, and there’s someone with a boom mic on my behind trying to keep up with Rory’s pace; that’s the disregard that I existed.”
It is not uncommon for individuals to congregate around McIlroy. In fact, hundreds surrounded him throughout Wednesday’s practice round.
As the current FedEx Cup points leader, it speaks volumes to hear Rahm say he felt essentially insignificant.
Rahm’s unfortunate break on the 18th hole was quite costly. After driving 333 yards into the fairway, the seasoned golfer’s approach shot landed in a pothole against the wall. He was forced to play from the fairway and was unable to complete the hole from there, resulting in a score of six.
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The pot bunkers were unquestionably the highlight of The Open’s first day. With an 82, Justin Thomas posted the worst score of his professional career. On hole 18, it actually took him nine strokes to sink the ball.
They were by no means the only individuals struggling in the dunes. But Rahm anticipated a better performance and will need a stellar round on Friday to have any shot heading into the weekend.
