Rory McIlroy endured a disappointing start to his US PGA Championship campaign, finishing with four successive bogeys to card a four-over par opening round at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia.
The 37-year-old Northern Irishman, who is seeking a seventh major title, began his round from the 10th hole with a bogey but recovered with a birdie at the 11th. He then recorded ten consecutive pars before his birdie putt on the 18th narrowly missed, leaving him at even par at the turn.
McIlroy's round unravelled on the back nine with a sloppy drive on the fourth leading to a second bogey. Although he responded with a 31-foot birdie putt, inaccurate tee shots resulted in four straight bogeys, derailing his campaign.
Playing alongside Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth, McIlroy had strong support from the galleries. Rahm finished at one under par after an eagle on the second hole, while Spieth ended at one under following three birdies and two late bogeys.
Xander Schauffele, the 2024 winner, set the early pace at two under par. England's Alex Fitzpatrick started well but finished at two over after a double bogey and two bogeys. Bryson DeChambeau struggled with a six-over 76, while Garrick Higgo carded a one-under 69 despite a two-shot penalty for being late to the tee.
World number one and defending champion Scottie Scheffler begins his championship later alongside Matt Fitzpatrick and Justin Rose.
