Rory McIlroy Starts Strong in US Open, Eyes Fifth Major Title

Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay share the lead after a compelling first day at Pinehurst, North Carolina, in the US Open. Cantlay, with a superb early round of five-under 65, edged ahead, closely followed by Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg. McIlroy, playing later in the day, navigated the challenging course smoothly, matching Cantlay with a flawless round of his own. Rory McIlroy, buoyed by two birdies in his final three holes, highlighted his controlled performance. Bryson DeChambeau impressed with four birdies and one bogey for a 67, tying with France’s Matthieu Pavon. Tyrrell Hatton shot a solid 68 while Tommy Fleetwood and Robert MacIntyre finished even, eyeing their maiden major title.

World number one Scottie Scheffler, fresh off a recent victory streak, struggled to find his rhythm, finishing at one-over 71. Three-time champion Tiger Woods faced a challenging round with five bogeys in seven holes, concluding at four over par. Only five out of 1,368 US Open rounds at Pinehurst’s Number Two course had been bogey-free before today. McIlroy and Spain’s Sergio Garcia joined that elite list, with just 15 players finishing under par under favorable conditions. McIlroy started his US Open without a bogey for the second time, signaling promise after a decade without a major win.

McIlroy’s recent US Open form, including a 2023 second-place finish, sets him up to vie for a fifth major title. Cantlay and DeChambeau led the American charge, benefiting from optimal morning conditions to secure their positions atop the leaderboard. Cantlay’s strategy of capitalizing on the early tee-off paid off, while DeChambeau showcased his calculated approach amidst Pinehurst’s fast and firm conditions. Scheffler, despite a lackluster start, remains in contention, while Aberg continued his upward trajectory after a runner-up finish at Augusta. The Swede demonstrated his talent with early birdies, briefly leading before a setback on the par-three sixth.

Meanwhile, Woods faced challenges in maintaining momentum after an initial birdie, reflecting on his struggle to balance fitness and competitive play this season. His performance underscores the demanding nature of Pinehurst’s layout, known for its punishing greens and strategic play. In the evolving US Open, McIlroy, Cantlay and DeChambeau emerge as frontrunners, promising an intriguing tournament battle ahead.