First Round Thrills: McIlroy, Schauffele and Clark Tied for Lead

Rory McIlroy shares the lead with Xander Schauffele and Wyndham Clark at seven under after the first round of the Players Championship. McIlroy made 10 birdies including one on the iconic par-three 17th but dropped shots on the 18th and seventh holes after driving into water.

Matt Fitzpatrick and Nick Taylor are one shot behind at six under. World number one Scottie Scheffler is at five under aiming to defend his title. McIlroy’s round set the tone with his early birdies. Schauffele and Clark also performed well both carding impressive rounds.

Fitzpatrick recovered from an early setback to post a strong score. Ryan Fox achieved a hole in one at the 17th while Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose are five shots off the lead. A group of players will complete their first rounds on Friday morning due to darkness.