Rory McIlroy began his maiden competitive appearance in India at the DP World India Championship at Delhi Golf Club (DGC). McIlroy, a global golfing icon, is seeking new experiences and aiming to enrich his career. Inspired by a conversation with tennis legend Roger Federer, McIlroy decided to venture into uncharted territory and compete in a new country.
In a surprising move, McIlroy left his driver in the clubhouse for the opening round. Despite the absence of what has long been considered his most potent weapon, McIlroy carded six birdies but was ultimately let down by three bogeys, finishing with a three-under 69. He sits four shots behind clubhouse leader Keita Nakajima.
McIlroy started strong, chipping in for birdie on his first hole, the 10th. However, he faced difficulties on the next, three-putting for a bogey and then failing to get up and down on the 11th for another bogey. Despite these setbacks, McIlroy birdied both par-5s on the back nine. He bogeyed the eighth hole, a 522-yard par 4, which impacted his score.
McIlroy explained his decision to play without a driver, stating that the narrow fairways and punishing rough of Delhi Golf Club demand precision over power. He felt that the risk of using a driver wasn't worth the reward, preferring to play conservatively off the tee and attack the par-5s. "Dog (driver) was out of the bag, probably asleep in the locker. I was sort of thinking about it last night before I went to bed," McIlroy said. He added that he didn't see any hole where he needed to hit the ball more than 260 or 270 yards off the tee.
McIlroy emphasized the importance of accuracy and strategic play at DGC. He noted the unpredictable rough and the need to be less aggressive with approach shots. He also pointed out the challenge of the grainy greens, where uphill putts are slow, and downhill putts are very fast.
The DP World India Championship marks a significant moment for golf in India. The $4 million purse is the largest ever offered for a DP World Tour event in India. The tournament has attracted a stellar field, including major champions Shane Lowry and Brian Harman, as well as world-class players like Tommy Fleetwood and Viktor Hovland. The event also includes 26 Indian players.
Rory McIlroy is grouped alongside Ryder Cup-winning teammate Viktor Hovland and Ben Griffin for the first two days of the tournament. McIlroy's participation has generated considerable excitement, with large crowds following him during the pro-am.
Looking ahead, McIlroy hopes this won't be his last trip to India and expressed interest in attending a cricket match and visiting the Taj Mahal with his family. He also mentioned his desire to play the DLF Golf and Country Club at some point.
