Radio call of Rory McIlroy holing out for eagle at The Open is electric (Video)

Rory McIlroy enters the final round on Sunday at St. Andrews with a share of the British Open lead. He secured his final pairing spot with an electric eagle on the final hole.

McIlroy has long awaited a chance like this at the British Open on such a historic course. Opportunities in 2010 and 2015 went by the wayside, making 2022 his best chance yet.

The Irishman hasn’t won a major since 2014, and frankly, this feels all too familiar. Until Rory gets over the hump once again, he will always be considered close, but no cigar.

McIlroy has kept his emotions in check as much as humanly possible. After tough outings at Augusta and then the US Open, St. Andrews was a chance for Rory to put it all together. And, boy, has he ever.

At -16 through three rounds after a -6 third, Rory holds a share of the lead with Viktor Hovland, both of whom are four shots up on the rest of the field entering Sunday’s final round.

British Open: Rory McIlroy nets electric eagle on 18th hole

It was an eagle on 18 that set up Rory with a tie of the lead, and could perhaps serve as the deciding factor at the old course.

McIlroy came to St. Andrews as the favorite to hold the Claret Jug come the end of the tournament, and thus far he’s delivered. He’s one two PGA Tournaments already this year. A major is all that’s missing to put a cap on what’s been an impressive season.

For once, Rory has been in tune with his emotions, even letting himself embrace the moment ever so slightly. You can bet that version of McIlroy will be readily available on Sunday, with more vital moments to come.