RORY McILROY gave a tip to Tiger Woods and then began following the footsteps of the legend.

The show of respect he received on his 18th fairway walk was what made him cry, according to Woods, a giant.

After failing to make the cut, the greatest golfer of modern history wept and waved goodbye to his favorite course.

McIlroy was playing on the first and Woods received a standing ovation by thousands of St Andrews fans.

It inspired him to keep fighting for Open glory, as he won with a second-round of 68 to finish ten shots behind leader Cameron Smith.

Woods stated that the warmth and emotion of 18 was what attracted him. Rory was right there. He gave me the tip for the cap.

It was quite cool. It was quite cool to get nods from guys who went out.

"The 18-year-old ovation is something I will always remember."

Woods, 46 years old, is now heading home after finishing nine over par in the first round.

The ongoing back problems that have resulted from last year's horror car crash are making it harder to recover.

Woods stated that he didn't know how his health would turn out. It's difficult to just walk 18 holes.

But fitness problems have not dampened the 15-times Major winner’s competitive spirit.

Woods stated that he was a bit annoyed that he wasn't playing on weekends.

"I wish that I could have played better. "I fought hard."

McIlroy praised Woods and said that Tiger was a hero for all of them growing up. We all long to see him again.

"He deserves it, and we deserve him."

When asked about the tipping of the cap, he replied that it would have been more beneficial if he was eight under at that time, rather than eight over, or whatever it was.

As he hunts for a second Claret Jug, the Northern Irishman is correct in the mix.

He stated, "I know that I have the game. It's up to me to continue hitting great shots until there are no more holes.

"I feel pretty in control all year. It was a great day.

"I'm now in a great place going into the weekend.

It feels good. It's going be a great weekend, and it's good to be part of the mix.

Rory still has a lot to do as Smith scored eight under yesterday.

The ice-cool Aussie stated that it was "exciting to lead The Open after just a few days."

"I think that the experience will be very cool. There are many Aussies in this crowd.

"I have received a lot support and I can't wait to see the next few days."