Rory McIlroy and Brian Harman in front after opening round of BMW Championship

The pair lead by one from a six-strong chasing pack which includes England’s Matt Fitzpatrick.
Rory McIlroy and Brian Harman in front after opening round of BMW Championship

By PA Sport Staff

Rory McIlroy carded a flawless 65 to share a one-stroke lead with American Brian Harman after the first round of the BMW Championship in Chicago.

The Northern Irishman picked up five birdies without dropping a shot, while Harman split six birdies with a bogey on the par four 12th.

The pair lead by one from a six-strong chasing pack which includes England’s Matt Fitzpatrick.

The 28-year-old dropped shots at the start and end of his opening round, but birdied six of nine holes around the turn.

Meanwhile, Patrick Cantlay has some improving to do if he is to be successful in his bid for a third-straight victory in the BMW Championship.

The American carded a two under 68 on Thursday to sit equal-12th.

More in this section

Leicester’s decline from Premier League champions to brink of League One Leicester’s decline from Premier League champions to brink of League One
Formula One bosses unveil rule changes following driver criticism Formula One bosses unveil rule changes following driver criticism
Marco Rose appointed Bournemouth head coach on three-year deal from summer Marco Rose appointed Bournemouth head coach on three-year deal from summer

Sponsored Content

AF The College Green Hotel Dublin March 2026 The College Green Hotel: A refined address in the heart of Dublin
SETU and Glassworks set to accelerate innovation SETU and Glassworks set to accelerate innovation
Driving Growth in Munster: How property finance is powering Cork’s future Driving Growth in Munster: How property finance is powering Cork’s future
Contact Us Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited

Add Echolive.ie to your home screen - easy access to Cork news, views, sport and more