Rory McIlroy began his 2026 U.S. Open campaign with a 1-under 69 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on Thursday.
Despite bogeying each of his final two holes, the Northern Irishman finished a U.S. Open round in the 60s for the 23rd time in his career — tying Phil Mickelson for the second most all time. PGA Tour legend Jack Nicklaus holds the all-time record with 29 rounds in the 60s, while Tiger Woods has 21.
McIlroy birdied two of his opening three holes on Thursday, going 2-under on No. 11 and No. 12. He notched bogeys on No. 13 and No. 16, finishing his opening nine at even par.
McIlroy notched another birdie on No. 3, then recorded an impressive eagle on the par-5 fifth.
McIlroy’s opening round at the 2026 U.S. Open was far better than the last time the major event took place at Shinnecock. In 2018, he began the tournament with a disappointing 10-over 80 — which ultimately led to him missing the cut.
McIlroy, the reigning back-to-back Masters champion, is in contention to compete for his seventh major championship title. He has one win at the U.S. Open, notching his first career major title at the 2011 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club.
McIlroy’s second round will begin at 1:47 p.m. ET alongside Ludvig Aberg and Tommy Fleetwood.