The 153rd Open Championship kicked off at Royal Portrush with tough conditions and high expectations. For Bryson DeChambeau, the start wasn’t ideal.

Bryson DeChambeau is testing a prototype ball at the British Open that he claims flies straighter and spins more with wedges — but it’s not ready yet.

Bryson DeChambeau left the windswept links at Royal Portrush somewhat bashed up after a tough first round at the British Open and said to himself: “I want to go home.”

Known as "The Scientist" for his analytical approach, the Crushers team leader found the links course a formidable adversary. DeChambeau began with a solid trio of pars but hit a snag at the fourth hole, where the punishing rough of Portrush ensnared him.

The 31-year-old heads to Royal Portrush for this year’s Open in search of a breakthrough performance at the sport’s original major; one which could see that named etched into both history and the Claret Jug.

DeChambeau, an SMU product and one of golf’s biggest names, said on Friday he was all for Trump’s Turnberry course in Scotland hosting an Open

And that's exactly what Bryson DeChambeau did on Tuesday at Royal Portrush. The two-time U.S. Open champ would love to add a British Open title to his major collection this week. But even if he isn't crowned the "Champion Golfer of the Year" on Sunday,

DeChambeau, who grew up in Clovis, California, recalled getting his first taste of links golf at the 2015 Walker Cup at Royal Lytham. He played well, shooting 66 in a singles match. “I felt comfortable coming over here in 2017, and then I just wasn't prepared for the elements,” he recalled.