Rory McIlroy, the world No. 3 golfer from Northern Ireland, made a strong start in the first round of the US Open at Pinehurst on Thursday, as he seeks to end a decade-long drought in major championships.
McIlroy, 35, rolled in a 67-foot birdie putt at the par-5 fifth hole and followed it up with a seven-foot birdie at the fourth, standing 2-under par at the turn.
McIlroy, a four-time major winner, has not won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship.
However, he has been in impressive form at the US Open in recent years, finishing in the top 10 for the past five editions, with each result better than the last. In 2022, he finished second, just two strokes behind the champion.
The Northern Irishman is looking to build on his recent successes and finally break through for another major title.
McIlroy has been working hard on his game, and his strong start at Pinehurst suggests that he is in good form and ready to challenge for the top spot.
As the first round continues, McIlroy will be looking to maintain his momentum and put himself in a strong position heading into the weekend.
With his experience and talent, he is certainly one of the players to watch at this year's US Open.
