Golf-McIlroy takes two-shot lead in season-opening Dubai Invitational

Nov 6, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Common Golf player Rory McIlroy speaks to the media during a press conference at MGM Music Hall MassMutual Lounge. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo

DUBAI (Reuters) - Rory McIlroy carded a nine-under-par 62 to take a two-shot lead over Yannik Paul after the first round of the Dubai Invitational at the Dubai Creek Resort on Thursday.

It was a flawless opening round from the world number two McIlroy, who began on the back nine and hit four birdies in the first nine holes and followed up with five birdies to lay down an early marker.