McIlroy takes first-round lead at Dubai Invitational

Rory McIlroy made a bright start to the new year as he fired a five-under par 66 to take a one-shot lead after the first round of the Dubai Invitational on Thursday. The reigning Masters champion made seven birdies, edging to the top of the early leaderboard ahead of Spaniard David Puig and Scot Connor […]

Rory McIlroy made a bright start to the new year as he fired a five-under par 66 to take a one-shot lead after the first round of the Dubai Invitational on Thursday.

The reigning Masters champion made seven birdies, edging to the top of the early leaderboard ahead of Spaniard David Puig and Scot Connor Syme.

McIlroy is targeting his eighth professional title in Dubai after four Dubai Desert Classic victories and three wins in the European Tour’s Tour Championship

The Northern Irishman made six birdies on the back nine after starting on the 10th hole, before grinding his way to the clubhouse.