Rory McIlroy tee shot fractures spectator's hand on day one of The Open

Rory McIlroy had a dream start to his bid to end his major drought at the 150^th Open Championship.

That 6-under 66 at times was so leisurely despite the fact he later described it as “fiddly” and had to manufacture multiple two-putts from 80 odd feet. 

However, on his way to posting a score that will have his legion of fans reaching for the smelling salts, there was one ugly moment for this chap.

And spare a thought for him too, because of his job. His name is Charlie Kane and he works for the PGA Tour on their social media team.

Unfortunately for Kane, it appears that he was struck by one of the Northern Irishman’s tee shots, squarely on the knuckle.

I mean look at the state of this thing. That looks like it really, really hurt. Losing the ability to type this week just isn't what you need.

Kane captioned his Tweet: “Fractured hand after Rory McIlroy’s drive landed on my knuckle. He did shout fore. I did not heed the warning.”

Kane posted four pictures showing the immediate aftermath, a scan at the hospital, his hand bandaged up and then another photo back at the Old Course with a beer in hand.

Talk about a story for the grandchildren.

Fractured hand after Rory McIlroy’s drive landed on my knuckle.



He shouted fore. I did not heed the warning. #TheOpen pic.twitter.com/91bOwuA4mY

— Charlie Kane (@PGATOURKane) July 14, 2022

 

 

 

 

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More: Pace of play at The Open? "A disgrace"

It was good vibes for McIlroy straight from the off at the home of golf. He binned an absolute monster putt at the very first hole and never looked back.

The same cannot be said for Tiger Woods, who found water with his second shot at his favourite course in the world and then laboured to an opening round of 6-over par 78.

He’ll need a 66 tomorrow if he has any chance of making the cut.

But for McIlroy, right now he looks like he’s the man to beat.

If he does manage to get his hands on the Claret Jug, he might just buy Kane a beer.

Or two.

Next page: Bryson DeChambeau on his axing from Bridgestone