McIlroy handled the challenging weather at Riviera Country Club with ease, posting a strong first-round score despite a three-hour rain delay and 20-plus mph winds. The four-time major champion birdied twice in his first three holes before the delay, then birdied his first shot after the break.
McIlroy was briefly tied for the lead after his round before Aaron Rai passed him with a late birdie. Play was suspended for the day due to darkness. "I've started to just really enjoy this style of golf," McIlroy said, noting his improved mindset for difficult conditions after struggling with them earlier in his career.