Defending champion Rory McIlroy has moved five shots back into the lead after completing his opening round at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
McIlroy, who is chasing a record fifth Emirates GC title and third in a row, had a birdie on his 16th hole as he clawed his way to an opening round 70.
Tom McKibbin and Padraig Harrington were among a group of players who joined McIlroy at the club on 70, five adrift of Ricardo Gouveia and David Micheluzzi.
Portugal’s Gouveia and Australia’s Micheluzzi, ranked 405th and 225th in the world respectively, shared the early club lead after the round of 65.
“First tournament of the year and first tournament in a while,” McIlroy said. Sky Sports. “It’s a little uncomfortable because of some shots.
“(But) I got it and I got it with a pair it’s good under. I didn’t get knocked out, which is the main thing.”
Northern Ireland international Tom McKibbin is among a group of players five shots adrift of club leaders Ricardo Gouvey and David Micheletti.
McKibbin’s impending move to LIV Golf was reported to have dominated the agenda before play began, with McIlroy admitting he would be “disappointed” if the 22-year-old joins the Saudi-funded breakaway league in Dubai before protecting.
Four birdies on the course saw McKibbiny three off the lead after 14 holes before a double bogey at the sixth saw the Northern Irishman stutter at the end of his round.
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Hero Dubai Desert Classic on Sky Sports
Sky Sports will have extended coverage of all four rounds of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic as well as Featured Groups live from 4am every morning. Sky Sports Golf and bringing a bonus action before the main action.
Coverage continues at 7.30am on Friday, from 7am on weekends, with all four PGA Tour American Express rounds and the Latin American Amateur Championship also live on Sky Sports. Stream the DP World Tour, Specials and more with NOW!.
