Warm welcome doesn’t deliver the desired effect for world No 1 Donald

The Hemel Hempstead-born 33-year-old, who bases himself in the United States, carded a one-over 71 in the group behind favourite Rory McIlroy.

“You hear a few shouts from the crowd, ‘No 1’ and ‘congrats’ and stuff like that, and you try to draw from all the good stuff that got you to No 1,” he said.

“Certainly there was a lot more applause onto the tees – I think people (were) appreciating the good golf I’ve been playing in recent months.

“You try to use the energy of the crowd to your advantage but it was tricky and the conditions weren’t easy.

“The wind at times was very gusty but I felt like I played a pretty solid round, other than some missed opportunities on the greens.

“I had three or four lip-outs today, a few other opportunities that went amiss.

“It really could have been a very good round, although 71 is still solid, but certainly it could have been a little bit better if I’d had the putter going.”

Ian Poulter, meanwhile, admitted he would have been disappointed had he not finished under par having played so well without creating many chances in his first round.

The Ryder Cup star’s two birdies at the par-three 16th and 17th ensured he finished on 69.

“I’m happy with the finish,” said the 35-year-old.

“I couldn’t have asked to hit the ball any better. There were a couple of par saves but apart from that it was pretty flawless.

“I definitely think I’ve got a chance if I play like I did today.”

Paul Casey, who was disappointed with his four-over 74, revealed he has been struggling with a problem with the big toe on his right foot and is scheduled to have an MRI scan after the Open.