Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay Share Lead at US Open
The first round of the US Open took place Thursday in Pinehurst, North Carolina, with Northern Irishman Rory McIlroy and American Patrick Cantlay finishing tied for the lead. French golfer Matthieu Pavon also put on an impressive performance, finishing in 4th place, just two shots behind the leaders.
Pavon, who was at one point at -5 due to two eagles and a birdie, completed the day with a score of 67 (three under par), despite recording two bogeys in the last seven holes. Reflecting on his game, Pavon remarked, 'My game this year is good overall. I've had a few down weeks, but it happens. I had to adjust to the PGA Tour; I wasn't necessarily completely prepared for it.' Pavon has displayed promise with a win in January and securing 12th place at the Masters in April.
McIlroy, the world No. 3, had a stellar day, ending with a six-meter putt that gave him a card featuring 5 birdies and no bogeys. 'I am happy with my departure,' said the 35-year-old, who is on the quest for his first major since 2014, having won the US Open in 2011.
Meanwhile, World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who secured a win at the Masters in April, finds himself in 34th place, six shots off the lead after the first round.
Struggles for Tiger Woods
Tiger Woods faced difficulties during his first round, placing 86th, 9 shots behind leaders McIlroy and Cantlay. At 48, Woods continues his comeback a year after undergoing ankle surgery, a consequence of a car accident in 2021. This is his third major tournament this season, but his return has been underwhelming so far, with a 60th finish at the Masters and failing to make the cut at PGA Championship in May.
'I wasn't as sharp as I hoped,' admitted Woods, a three-time US Open champion. 'I'm improving physically little by little this year. I just haven't been able to play much because I don't want to jeopardize my chances of playing in the Majors. It's a dilemma. Playing a lot raises the risk of getting hurt, and not playing means struggling to find your form.'
- McIlroy and Cantlay's consistent performance sets a high bar for upcoming competitors. Their precision and skill at Pinehurst were evident, providing a thrilling start to this year's US Open.
- Beyond the leading pack, the tournament's first day highlighted the dynamic nature of golf, where top-ranked players such as Scheffler can face unexpected challenges, demonstrating the unpredictability of the sport.
- Tiger Woods' ongoing struggles serve as a somber reminder of the physical demands of golf, especially for seasoned players recovering from serious injuries. His journey back to top form continues to garner significant public interest and support.
