A frustrated Rory McIlroy struggled to a seven-over 78, hampering his bid for a second Open title on a wet and windy opening morning at Royal Troon.
World number two Rory McIlroy finished 10 shots behind American Justin Thomas, who set the clubhouse lead at three under by sinking a 25-foot putt on the final hole.
A disappointed McIlroy described his day as one where he struggled to adapt to the conditions, focusing now on making the cut on Friday.
Justin Rose of England, who qualified for the tournament, ended with 11 straight pars to stay one shot behind the leader at two under.
Joining him at two under are European Ryder Cup players Alex Noren and Nicolai Hojgaard, along with American Russell Henley.
Matt Wallace briefly led at four under after a birdie on the eighth, but a poor drive on the ninth led to a triple-bogey seven, leaving him at one under for the round.
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