- The opening day of the 2025 Australian Open delivered exactly what fans hoped for—surprises, momentum swings, and a leaderboard stacked with both rising stars and established names. Yet one headline stands out above the rest: Rory McIlroy, the tournament’s biggest draw and one of golf’s most recognizable figures, finds himself seven shots behind the trio of co-leaders—Elvis Smylie, Carlos Ortiz, and Ryan Fox—after a turbulent first round at the legendary Royal Melbourne.
Royal Melbourne has always been as much a character in the story as the players themselves. Its hard, fast greens and tight fairways demand precision and creativity. It’s the kind of course that rewards patience and punishes even the slightest misjudgment. That truth showed up in full force for McIlroy on day one. His round never quite found a rhythm—flashes of brilliance here, frustrating mistakes there—leaving him with what can best be described as an “up-and-down” start to the week. For a player known for explosive Thursday statements, this was a quieter, more complicated beginning.
But seven shots is not an insurmountable deficit for someone with McIlroy’s pedigree. The Northern Irishman has made a career out of dramatic charges and late-week surges. What makes this situation intriguing is how early he’s been tested. In many ways, this could light the spark he needs to lock in and push back into contention. The tournament is far from over, and McIlroy knows better than anyone that majors and marquee events are won through consistency, not just hot starts.
On the other side of the leaderboard, the trio leading the charge adds a fascinating dynamic to the tournament. Elvis Smylie, the young Australian, is quickly becoming one of the most exciting home-grown talents to watch. His confidence, course awareness, and ability to stay composed under pressure were on full display. To open with a share of the lead at Royal Melbourne is a statement—not just that he belongs, but that he’s ready to contend.
Carlos Ortiz, the steady Mexican ball-striker, brought his signature calmness and efficiency, navigating the course with minimal drama. That consistency might be his biggest weapon this week. And then there’s Ryan Fox, the big-hitting New Zealander, whose aggression paid off beautifully in round one. Fox’s powerful style carries risk, but when it’s working, he can turn a course into his playground. Today, it worked.
Together, the three represent a blend of youth, experience, and differing play styles. Their performances add depth not only to the leaderboard but to the narrative of the championship itself. If they maintain this pace, the battle for the trophy could stretch across nations and generations.
So while McIlroy’s start may not have been ideal, the story of the 2025 Australian Open is just beginning to unfold. The leaders have set the pace, but the chasing pack—including one of the most talented players of his generation—is very much alive. As the tournament moves forward, all eyes will be on whether McIlroy can steady the ship, build momentum, and close the gap. Royal Melbourne has challenged him—but it has also given him an opening.