J.J. Spaun carded a four-under opening round to lead the US Open at Oakmont, and the 34-year-old believes his recent play-off loss to Rory McIlroy has helped him in the long run

Rory McIlroy went out on a magic carpet of sheer brilliance but joined Shane Lowry in coming home in an ambulance as Oakmont punished Irish golf’s twin stars in the 125th US Open.

Brooks Koepka, not Bryson or Jon Rahm, was the low LIV’er in Round 1 at Oakmont, while a trio of friends had a Thursday to forget.

Rory McIlroy explained Wednesday that a major reason he didn't speak to the media during the PGA Championship last month was because he was not pleased news leaked of his driver being ruled nonconforming in testing.

Rory McIlroy went out on a magic carpet of sheer brilliance but joined Shane Lowry in coming home in an ambulance as Oakmont punished Irish golf’s twin stars in the 125th US Open.

JJ Spaun grabbed the early US Open lead with a bogey-free 66 at Oakmont; Spaun contended multiple times on PGA Tour this season, including alongside Rory McIlroy at The Players; Watch the US Open live

Rory McIlroy was quite direct that year, calling out well-known names of the golf scene who decided to join the rival project. Rory did not understand where some people's desire and passion for money came from, stressing that tradition and prestige should be a priority.

Rory McIlroy has struggled with his game and his motivation since completing the career Grand Slam. He now faces the sternest of challenges at Oakmont.

Rory McIlroy explained his decision not to speak to the media during last month’s PGA Championship, saying Wednesday he was annoyed that news had leake