RORY MILLROY has resisted the LIV brigade's charge after a wild start to The Open.

McIlroy shot 66 the first day, but has a bunch of rebel golf stars at St Andrews.

He is a strong critic of the Saudi-backed breakaway series that has split the sport into two in civil war.

Ian Poulter was BOOED at the first Tee, but Lee Westwood, a fellow Brit rebel, rebutted Tiger Woods' assertion that anyone who jumps ship is betraying his game.

McIlroy, the 2014 champ, is now on a crusade against any LIV star who tries to lift the Claret Jug.

Westwood, however, managed a four-under-par 68 and then said: "Woods is in it for the long term." The PGA Tour players talk about this tour, while the LIV tour players talk about it.

"I respect Tiger as an amateur golfer. I don't pay too much to other people's opinions.

"There is no animosity among players. The galleries have given me a wonderful reception. The public wants to see great golf, and the R&A wants the best players to win.

Poulter posted a 69 in order to join Westwood, American LIV rebels Dustin Johnson and Bryson Dechambeau on the first page.

The Open has been overshadowed in part by the growing division between players who are moving to LIV and those who remain loyal.

• Offers to new customers and free bets
• David Facey's Tips
• Each-way and first round leaders

McIlroy believes it would be better for this year's winner if he was not an LIV defector.

Poulter claimed he didn't hear any heckling, though he did hook his first shot on the opposite fairway.

He stated that he thought he had received a wonderful reception. I have always respected all the golfers I play with, and I don't think it's going to change.

"So even people who have been vocal to me have been quite decent."

McIlroy is in the best physical and mental shape he has been for many years, as he pursues his fifth Major.

He stated, "I came into here playing well, and I've played the course well over time. It was clear to me that if I went out there and adhered to my game plan, something like this could be possible.