Pinehurst, North Carolina – Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay set the tone at the 124th US Open as the renowned No. 2 course tested the field on Thursday. Despite the tough conditions, McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Cantlay of the United States excelled, both scoring a five-under 65 to share the early lead with a record-setting performance at the venue.
McIlroy, aiming for his fifth major title after a decade-long wait, displayed remarkable control and precision throughout his round, ending with a spectacular 20-foot birdie putt. His flawless start bodes well, as history shows that previous bogey-free starts at majors have led to victory for him.
Speaking to reporters, McIlroy expressed his satisfaction with his performance, emphasizing the importance of starting strong. Cantlay, an eight-time PGA Tour winner, also put on a solid display with six birdies, marking his first sub-70 round at the US Open in nine appearances and setting himself up for a shot at his first major title.
On the other hand, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler faced challenges in his pursuit of a sixth win and second major of the season, opening with a one-over 71. The reigning Masters champion struggled with accuracy, hitting only six fairways, which hindered his progress on the leaderboard.
Meanwhile, Ludvig Aberg of Sweden emerged as a strong contender, trailing the leaders by just one stroke after an impressive 66. Aberg’s consistent performance, hitting every fairway and missing only two greens, underscored his potential as a rising star in the golfing world.
As the tournament unfolds, other notable players like Bryson DeChambeau and Matthieu Pavon are in contention, showcasing their skills with standout performances on the challenging course. Despite early struggles, veterans like Tiger Woods exhibited resilience, aiming to improve their standings in the upcoming rounds.
With the competition heating up, Friday’s second round promises more excitement and drama as players strive to secure their spots for the weekend. The US Open continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling play and unpredictable outcomes, making it a must-watch event for golf enthusiasts worldwide.