MCILROY GRINDS TO OPENING 69 AS CLARK MOVES CLEAR
Rory McIlroy opened with a one-under 69 in the US Open at Shinnecock Hills (Photo: Getty)
Rory McIlroy opened his 2026 U.S. Open campaign with a composed one-under-par 69 in a punishing first round at Shinnecock Hills, as Wyndham Clark surged into a commanding lead and Ireland’s challenge made a mixed start in difficult conditions.
World number two McIlroy battled through swirling winds and early delays caused by thick fog to stay within touching distance of the lead, finishing the day just one shot back after briefly threatening the top of the leaderboard.
“It was one of those days where patience mattered more than anything else,” said McIlroy. “You can’t force it around here. You just have to accept the bogeys and keep plugging away.”
The Northern Irishman had been three under with two holes remaining but dropped late shots coming in, a frustrating finish that still left him firmly in contention after a typically demanding Shinnecock examination.
“I actually felt I managed it well for most of the round,” he added. “Those last couple of holes are exactly why this place is such a test - it bites if you lose concentration for a second.”
At the top of the leaderboard, 2023 champion Clark produced the round of the day, reaching six-under with two holes still to complete when play was suspended due to fading light. Clark’s aggressive start included an eagle at the par-five fifth, giving him a four-shot cushion over the field at the time stoppage.
“It’s about taking your chances when they come,” Clark said. “You know Shinnecock will punish you, so I just tried to stay in my lane and be decisive.”
Behind him, a cluster of players sit in pursuit at two-under, including amateur Ryder Cowan, whose impressive 68 matched the low round of the day before play was halted.
Ireland’s Shane Lowry endured a difficult start to be four over through 14 holes, while Graeme McDowell, the 2010 champion, opening with a six over 76.