2024 U.S. Open: McIlroy and Cantlay Lead After Thrilling First Round at Pinehurst
Opening Day at Pinehurst No. 2
The 2024 U.S. Open teed off Thursday at the historic Pinehurst Resort's No. 2 course in North Carolina. As temperatures are expected to soar into the 90s this weekend, the competition on the course is heating up just as much.
First Round Leaders: McIlroy and Cantlay
Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay are the co-leaders after the opening round, each shooting a stellar 5-under 65. McIlroy, a four-time major champion, played bogey-free golf, carding five birdies. Cantlay, showing exceptional skill, recorded six birdies and one bogey. Trailing closely behind is Ludvig Aberg at 4-under, with Matthieu Pavon and Bryson DeChambeau at 3-under.
McIlroy's Perfect Start
Rory McIlroy expressed his satisfaction with his bogey-free round. "I felt like I controlled most aspects of my game really well," McIlroy said. "I was very disciplined when I needed to be. Kept hitting the ball pin-high on my approach shot, which is really important here. Just relentless trying to hit fairways and trying to hit greens."
DeChambeau's Swing Tweak
Bryson DeChambeau, who finished his round at 3-under, attributed his success to a recent tweak in his swing. "I made a little tweak with my left arm, which allowed my face angle to just go through a lot better," DeChambeau explained. He missed only two fairways, demonstrating remarkable consistency.
Scheffler's Struggles
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler had an uneven first day, finishing at 1-over. Despite hitting three bogeys and two birdies, Scheffler remains optimistic about making up ground in the coming rounds.
Other Notable Performances
Xander Schauffele, the 2024 PGA Championship winner, had a mixed day with four bogeys and four birdies, finishing even par and tied for 21st. Tiger Woods struggled with his putter, finishing at 4-over, while defending champion Wyndham Clark is looking to gain momentum after recent struggles.
Second Round Outlook
The second round promises more excitement as the top players vie for the lead. Rory McIlroy and Patrick Cantlay will aim to maintain their momentum, while challengers like Bryson DeChambeau and Ludvig Aberg seek to close the gap.
McIlroy's Confidence
McIlroy is hopeful about ending his major title drought, with his last win being the 2014 PGA Championship. "I'm more confident than ever that I'm right there, that I'm as close as I've ever been," he said.
DeChambeau's Resilience
Bryson DeChambeau, who won his first major at the 2020 U.S. Open, is determined to add another title to his name. His performance in the first round indicates he's in strong form.
Scheffler's Challenge
Scottie Scheffler will need to overcome his initial struggles to stay in contention. His determination and skill make him a formidable competitor.
