Rory McIlroy shares US Open lead after opening with a bogey-free 65
At Pinehurst, a unique perk awaits players: a barber stationed in the clubhouse, available for any last-minute grooming. Scottie Scheffler took advantage, visiting ‘Monti’ for a trim before his opening round at the US Open. However, on Thursday, his performance on the notoriously challenging No. 2 course mirrored his haircut—different and somewhat disheveled. The world…
At Pinehurst, a unique perk awaits players: a barber stationed in the clubhouse, available for any last-minute grooming. Scottie Scheffler took advantage, visiting ‘Monti’ for a trim before his opening round at the US Open. However, on Thursday, his performance on the notoriously challenging No. 2 course mirrored his haircut—different and somewhat disheveled. The world No. 1 struggled with consistency, providing a rare respite for his competitors, who have often felt overwhelmed by his dominance this season.
Rory McIlroy also unveiled a fresh approach. The 2011 champion has embraced a more conservative game for this US Open, reflecting on a self-admitted “come-to-Jesus moment.” This shift has resulted in five consecutive top-ten finishes, including a runner-up position in Los Angeles last year. McIlroy, still chasing his elusive fifth major, started strong here, tying for the lead and meticulously erasing Patrick Cantlay’s advantage with a superb opening round. Notably, both McIlroy and Cantlay posted record-tying 65s, the lowest ever at Pinehurst in a US Open, with McIlroy’s being bogey-free—a rarity in major tournament play.
Their rivalry, rekindled from last year’s Ryder Cup where McIlroy called Cantlay a “d***,” is heating up. Both are tied at five-under-par, a shot ahead of Sweden’s rising star Ludvig Aberg, making an impressive debut. Bryson DeChambeau, the 2020 champion, and France’s Matthieu Pavon are tied for fourth at three-under.
Meanwhile, Scheffler, the favorite, struggled to a one-over-par finish in a round where little seemed to click. Xander Schauffele had an erratic day, finishing level par after a round characterized by alternating birdies and bogeys, including a drive that ended up in a merchandise-filled plastic ball. Fans who endured this rollercoaster day, paying $650 for the experience, witnessed some of the world’s top golfers wrestle with Pinehurst’s challenges. Notably, Tiger Woods (+4), Phil Mickelson (+9), and Justin Thomas (+7) faced significant setbacks. Matt Fitzpatrick, the 2022 champion, ended the day at three-over-par, matching 2013 winner Justin Rose’s score.
Despite Scheffler’s six-shot deficit, he remains a formidable contender with five victories this season, achieved despite personal turmoil, including the birth of his first child and a brief stint in jail during the PGA Championship. Schauffele capitalized on that tumultuous week, securing his first major at Valhalla. Now, McIlroy hopes to seize his opportunity at Pinehurst, even as he navigates his own personal upheaval, having filed for and then reconsidered divorce from his wife of seven years, Erica Stoll, just before this tournament. Historically, McIlroy has often thrived amid chaos, and his controlled performance on Thursday was a testament to his resilience.
McIlroy’s round was punctuated by moments of brilliance, including a chip-in on the fifth hole and birdies at the fourth, tenth, sixteenth, and eighteenth. Yet, his strategy primarily involved cautious play, allowing him to maintain composure despite occasional errors. This steadiness stood in stark contrast to the struggles of his high-profile group members. Scheffler, frustrated after a wayward approach, nearly recovered with a subsequent chip, while Schauffele had to extricate himself from numerous predicaments.
By the time Cantlay finished his round, McIlroy and his group were still contending with Pinehurst’s trials. Cantlay’s round was notable for its precision, with just one bogey and only 23 putts. Starting with a par on the par-five tenth, Cantlay’s performance hinted at a strong challenge. Earlier, Woods had briefly shared the lead after a birdie at the same hole, showing promise under the guidance of his new swing coach, his 15-year-old son Charlie. However, as the day progressed, Woods’ form deteriorated, culminating in a frustrating finish with a four-over-par 74, leaving him nine shots behind Cantlay. The tough course, combined with Woods’ physical struggles, highlighted the difficulties of competing at Pinehurst.
As Woods reflected on the challenge of simply staying comfortable in the car ride back, the broader tournament at Pinehurst continues to build momentum. With the leaderboard tightly packed, the stage is set for an exciting weekend.