Rory McIlroy had a strong start to the year's second major yesterday, carding a -5 round of 66 at Valhalla.
It was a brilliant performance from the Ulsterman, who overcame adversity on a number of occasions to keep his round on track. He made a few excellent par saves, as well as some eye-catching shots in and around the green.
Rory McIlroy loves Valhalla 🔥pic.twitter.com/Mg0XJJ1FbP
— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) May 16, 2024
While he would sit four shots off the lead at the end of the day's play thanks to a sensational round from Xander Schauffele, Rory McIlroy certainly put himself in a position to contend over the coming days.
READ HERE: Rory McIlroy Divorce Could Bring "Clarity" At PGA Says Pádraig Harrington
Rory McIlroy has awkward exchange with reporter at PGA Championship
Rory McIlroy entered this tournament in fine form after his victory at the Wells Fargo Championship last weekend, although there has been some added attention on his life away from the course.
It was reported earlier this week that the Down native was set to divorce from his wife Erica Stoll. The couple have been married for seven years and share one daughter together.
McIlroy was not willing to discuss his personal life in the buildup to the PGA Championship, shutting down questions about his marriage during a press conference earlier this week.
Reporters attempted a more subtle method of asking about his situation away from golf in the aftermath of yesterday's round. It did not go down well.
Rory McIlroy is clearly not happy with questions about his off course issues following his opening round 5-under par 66 at Valhalla. #PGAChampionship pic.twitter.com/CNLZCCpBqf
— Chris McKee (@mrmckee) May 16, 2024
Reporter: Was it nice to be inside the ropes Rory and just concentrate on golf? Obviously there have been things going on this week.
McIlroy: It's always nice to be inside the ropes.
Reporter: Do you find it easy, we always ask players about compartmentalising, is that something you're good at and will have to rely on this week?
McIlroy: Happy to be here.
Regardless of the current situation in his personal life, Rory McIlroy's game is clearly in a very good place at the moment.
He was absolutely exceptional during his victory at Quail Hollow last week, something he has carried into the PGA Championship. Valhalla is a venue he knows well, having won this tournament on the course back in 2014.
The 35-year old will no doubt be hoping for a similar outcome this weekend.
SEE ALSO: Rory McIlroy Admits To "Lucky" Moment After Impressive Opening PGA Round
