McIlroy Shoots 66 to Lead Dubai Invitational Opener

Rory McIlroy launched his 2026 season with a commanding performance, carding a five-under-par 66 to claim the early clubhouse lead after the opening round of the Dubai Invitational at Dubai Creek Resort in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The world number two, who finished runner-up in the tournament's inaugural edition in 2024, made an immediate impact with new equipment in play. McIlroy switched from blade irons to more forgiving cavity-back models from TaylorMade, a change he had considered after noticing inconsistencies with longer irons late last year. He also introduced a new golf ball. "If there is help to be had, I'll definitely take it," McIlroy said after his round. "I've been thinking about it for a while. Even in Dubai at the DP World Tour Championship at the end of last year, I hit a couple of five-irons I misstruck slightly, and instead of it coming up five or seven yards short, it was coming up maybe 10 to 15 yards short, so I asked the guys at TaylorMade to build me up a set."

Starting on the 10th tee alongside Shane Lowry, McIlroy reached the turn in 31 strokes, highlighted by seven birdies in his first 10 holes. His wedges proved particularly sharp, with approaches...