Golf-McIlroy credits good mindset in strong U.S. Open start

Jun 13, 2024; Pinehurst, North Carolina, USA; Rory McIlroy prepares to putt on the second green during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-USA TODAY Sports

(Reuters) - Rory McIlroy harnessed the power of positive thinking to get a flawless start to his latest U.S. Open campaign on Thursday, carding a five-under par 65 at Pinehurst as he hopes to finally break his decade-long drought at the majors.

The Northern Irishman finished the day with five birdies to share the lead with American Patrick Cantlay, and credited his recent run of success at the tournament, including a second-place finish last year, to his mental outlook.