In an impressive display of skill and control, Rory McIlroy seized the lead at the Dubai Invitational, outshining his competitors with a remarkable nine-under-par 62 in the opening round. The world number two golfer set a high benchmark at the Dubai Creek Resort, taking a two-shot lead over Germany’s Yannik Paul.

McIlroy’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, starting on the back nine and quickly racking up four birdies. His momentum didn’t wane as he added five more birdies, showcasing the prowess that has kept him at the pinnacle of world golf. Follow your favourite golfer with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

Reflecting on his round, McIlroy admitted to being pleasantly surprised by his form: “I didn’t expect that, it didn’t feel quite as good as that the first couple of days when I was here hitting balls and playing the course. I surprised myself a little bit but hopefully more of the same over the next few days.”

Yannik Paul, who was neck and neck with McIlroy for a significant portion of the round, finished the day at seven-under, despite a setback with a bogey at the fifth. McIlroy’s relentless push in the final holes, marked by two additional birdies, widened the gap between him and Paul.

Not far behind, South Africa’s Thriston Lawrence finished three shots off the lead, while England’s Tommy Fleetwood and Denmark’s Thorbjorn Olesen are tied a further shot back at five-under. 

The Dubai Invitational, the inaugural event of the 2024 DP World Tour, boasts a substantial prize fund of $2.5 million dollars, adding to the allure and intensity of the competition. McIlroy’s exceptional start positions him as the frontrunner, but with golf’s unpredictability and the caliber of players in the field, the tournament remains wide open.

As the event progresses, all eyes will be on McIlroy to see if he can maintain his lead and start the 2024 season with a significant victory. His competitors, trailing closely, will be looking to narrow the gap and challenge his dominance in the upcoming rounds. Get the best golf predictions only on Nextbet Sports.