The American is three quarters of the way to emulating McIlroy’s career grand slam.

The former US senator said it was a ‘special treat’ to return to the region for the tournament at Royal Portrush.

Scheffler scored an eagle and birdie in back-to-back holes to open up a gap.

The Northern Irishman has moved within four shots of leader Scottie Scheffler.

The 38-year-old’s tee shot at the 199-yard 13th took three bounces before disappearing into the hole.

The Masters champion missed the cut last time the Open was staged on the Northern Irish links in 2019.