A promising start for Rory McIlroy turned sour as he found the water on the final hole of the BMW PGA Championship, affecting his first round score.
Rory McIlroy, currently ranked as the world number two golfer, encountered a difficult first round at the BMW PGA Championship in Wentworth. Despite a recent victory at his home open, McIlroy’s day was overshadowed by a late bogey that left him five shots behind the leader.
First Round Highlights
McIlroy started the day with noticeable confidence, marking a birdie on the first hole, which reflected his momentum from the K Club victory. His initial performance was promising, including a second birdie at the par-five fourth hole.
However, the 18th hole brought a significant challenge. In an attempt to end strong, McIlroy’s approach found the water, resulting in a bogey and an overall score of three-under-par 69.
Weather and Play Disruptions
The day was further complicated by an hour-and-a-half rain delay in the afternoon.
As the event progressed, players had to adjust to fluctuating conditions, which impacted their scoring. McIlroy concluded his round in near darkness, underscoring the weather’s influence on the tournament.
Leaders and Competition
By the end of the first round, Swedish golfer Ludvig Aberg and Frenchman Tom Vaillant emerged as the overnight leaders, each carding an impressive eight-under-par 64. Aberg, recently selected as a captain’s pick for the Ryder Cup, showcased resilience after an early bogey, finishing with four birdies on the front nine and three consecutive birdies to close. Vaillant, despite facing earlier challenges, excelled in the final holes, achieving six birdies in his last seven holes.
In third place, South Africa’s Casey Jarvis recorded a seven-under 65. England’s Matt Fitzpatrick, also in contention for Ryder Cup selection, finished two shots back at six-under 66. Justin Rose and Shane Lowry closely followed, each finishing the day at five-under par.
As the tournament unfolds, attention will focus on McIlroy to see if he can recover and take advantage of the weekend. His performance is considered vital in preparation for the upcoming Ryder Cup. With ten groups still to complete their opening rounds, the competition remains intense.
