The Northern Irish golfer secured the career Grand Slam with his win at Augusta earlier this year but admits that winning the Claret Jug in his homeland would be even more special.

McIlroy told BBC Sport NI: "It would be amazing.

"I think it would be just as emotional, if not more emotional than Augusta - and everyone saw the mess I was after that.

"It would be absolutely incredible. I'm so grateful and appreciative of the support I get from home and they really make me feel that out there.

"That's an amazing feeling to play in front of and I want to embrace that this week. There's pressure internally to put on a show for everyone but I know that if I just go out and play my game, I'm playing well enough to give myself a great chance."

The world number two missed the cut when The Open was last played at Portrush in 2019 but thinks he is better placed to take on the course this time around.

McIlroy said: "I'm so happy it's back so soon because I want to have another crack at it.

"I didn't have the week I wanted in 2019. I'm a better player, manage my game better, and even if I have an off day, it's not going to be a 79 like it was on the first day in 2019."

The five-time major winner has also vowed not to hide away from the spotlight during this year's tournament.

He said: "I think I probably tried to isolate, and I think it's better for everyone if I embrace it.

"I think it's better for me because it's nice to be able to accept adulation, even though I struggle with it at times. But it's also nice for the person that is seeing you for the first time in a few years.

"It just makes for a better interaction."