(ANSA) - Rome, July 18 - Pride of Turin Francesco Molinari
started his British Open title defence badly Thursday carding a
three-over-par 74 at Royal Portrush.
Italy's other competitor, Roman golfer Andrea Pavan, scored
73 in his second ever major.
Pre-tournament and home favourite Rory McIlroy had a
disastrous eight over round of 79 and already risks missing the
cut.
Tiger Woods had just started while four-time recent major
winner Brooks Koepka was already making his move.
Ireland's Shane Lowry was among the surprises carding 67.
Golf: Molinari starts Open defence badly
Pavan does one better with two over 73