Rory McIlroy reveals one thing he’s learnt about fans at the Canadian Open that he really loves

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Rory McIlroy has revealed one thing he’s learnt about the home fans at the Canadian Open that he really loves.

The Northern Irishman currently sits T30 after the first 36 holes at Hamilton Golf and Country Club after carding a two-over-par 72 on Friday.

One bogey on the front nine was followed by one more dropped shot on the back nine to leave the four-time major winner well out of contention.

Scott Robert MacIntyre and Australian share the lead on ten under, two shots clear of American fan favourite Joe Dahmen, who carded a 65.

Rory McIlroy has learnt one thing about Canadian fans

• READ MORE: Why Rory McIlroy struggled on the front nine at the RBC Canadian Open

McIlroy has tasted victory twice on Canadian soil in 2019 and 2022, and it’s fair to say the natives have embraced the 2024 Wells Fargo Champion.

Speaking on what it’s like playing in the Great White North, the 35-year-old highlighted just how patriotic Canadians can be.

He said: “The one thing I’ve learned about Canada and Canadians is that they love being from Canada, which I love. I love how proud they are of where they’re from.”

McIlroy went on to explain just how fortunate he is to play in atmospheres like the one found at the Canadian Open.

“They’re so enthusiastic, they cheer so loud, but then they’re super respectful when they need to be,” he added. “I don’t feel like we get the chance to play in atmospheres like that very often, so when we get the opportunity to, we have to embrace it.”

Rory faces an uphill battle at Hamilton Golf and Country Club

• READ MORE: Rory McIlroy explains how ready he is for the U.S. Open after taking a break

Sitting eight shots adrift of the lead, it’s fair to say McIlroy faces a struggle to play his way into contention over the weekend.

Hamilton Golf and Country Club is undoubtedly showing its teeth and is the perfect build-up for the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No.2.

The Memorial is next before the year’s third major and McIlroy will be hopeful of peaking at the right time in North Carolina.

It’s hard to believe it’s been over ten years since his last major victory, coming in the 2014 PGA Championship at Valhalla.

A player of the Northern Irishman’s quality needs to start delivering in the four biggest tournaments of the year if he really wants to be considered an all-time great.