Rory McIlroy produced a sublime nine-under-par opening round to surge into the lead at the Dubai Invitational on the DP World Tour.
Starting his round at the 10th at the Dubai Creek Resort, McIlroy got hot around the turn with a run of six birdies in eight holes.
The world No 2 then moved himself clear of the field with two birdies at his final three holes, with a stunning approach to the ninth setting up an eight-foot putt to close the bogey-free round in style.
McIlroy, who is making his first appearance of 2024 at the Pro-Am event, holds a two-shot lead over Germany’s Yannik Paul, with South African Thriston Lawrence a shot further back in third.
More to follow…
Watch the Dubai Invitational throughout the week live on Sky Sports. Live coverage continues on Friday from 7.30am on Sky Sports. Watch McIlroy in action throughout 2024 live on Sky Sports. Stream the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, LPGA Tour and more on NOW.
Get the best prices and book a round at one of 1,700 courses across the UK & Ireland