MAMARONECK, NY - Rory McIlroy has struggled to get off to fast starts at recent majors but showed no sign of jitters at the US Open on Thursday, shooting an opening round three-under-par 67 at Winged Foot Golf Club.
Starting on the back nine, the Northern Irishman feasted on the course's par-threes to mix four birdies and a bogey and sit two shots behind early leader Justin Thomas.
"I think maybe I've been putting myself under a little too much pressure to get off to a good start," McIlroy said.
"The first round of a major you're always anxious to play well, and maybe I've overthought it at times.
"I just went out today and just took what was given to me a little more relaxed and played really nicely."
The more things change, the more they stay the same. An iconic course... a field of hopeful players.... all dreaming of raising this trophy on Sunday.
— U.S. Open (USGA) (@usopengolf) September 17, 2020
We are beyond thankful for the opportunity to hold the 120th #USOpen during this year of change. pic.twitter.com/pf1UGpqKsW
The world number four was accurate off the tee but struggled at times on the sloping greens, three putting for par on the par-four fourth and again on the par-four first for his lone bogey.
"There were chances there to maybe sneak another two or three out of the round," the Northern Irishman said.
"But at the same time, 67 here is always going to be a good score. If you can get off to a good start, you're not chasing as much. And when you chase on US Open golf courses, that's when you can start to make mistakes and compound your errors."
#USOpen champions @TigerWoods, @JordanSpieth and @McIlroyRory all wrapped up their Thursday rounds around lunchtime.
— U.S. Open (USGA) (@usopengolf) September 17, 2020
Catch all the highlights from the morning wave Presented by @Lexus. pic.twitter.com/Vf39v2hIuB
The new father plans to check in with his family, practise a little and tune into the NBA playoffs - but watching more golf probably won't be part of his evening.
"No, I try not to," he said when asked if he would watch his rivals.
"I'll go grab some food, maybe do a little bit more practice. I'll go back, probably FaceTime, maybe do a little gym session and then the basketball is on tonight, so I'll watch that."
Reuters