Rory McIlroy’s Unexpected Challenge: Tough New Delhi Course and 69 Score at India Championship

In a notable debut at the Delhi Golf Club, Rory McIlroy faced a challenging course while competing for the India Championship. The world number two aimed to extend his lead in the Race to Dubai as he pursues his seventh Harry Vardon Trophy. However, he finished the first round with a score of 69, placing him strategically within the top ten, four strokes behind Japanese golfer Keita Nakajima.

Competitive Landscape in New Delhi

Keita Nakajima dazzled on the course, making an impressive eight birdies to secure a seven-under-par score of 65, leading the field. He held a two-shot advantage over Spain’s Jorge Campillo. McIlroy, with a score of 69, commended the challenging nature of the course.

Rory McIlroy’s Experience on the Course

• McIlroy noted the course’s strategic demands, stating it was “tricky.”
• He emphasized the importance of caution off the tee while targeting birdies on par-fives.
• McIlroy experienced ups and downs during his round, starting with a birdie on the 10th hole.
• After dropping to one over par, he managed to recover, finishing with a score of four under.

Reflecting on his strategy, McIlroy indicated he opted not to use his driver due to the tight setup of the course. Instead, he relied on his 2-iron, 3-iron, and 4-iron to navigate the course effectively. He humorously remarked about leaving his driver in the locker, comparing his strategy to “dog out of the bag.” McIlroy acknowledged the need for accuracy off the tee to avoid challenges posed by the rough.

Challenges and Insights from Other Competitors

Besides McIlroy, several competitors faced the demanding course, including U.S. Ryder Cup star Ben Griffin, who ended the round with a score of 68. He was among a group of six players at four under par, echoing the sentiment that the course requires precision to score well.

As McIlroy prepares for the next rounds, he plans to continue utilizing a cautious approach. He aims to manage the unpredictable rough while keeping the ball on the fairway, stressing the importance of positioning below the hole for better opportunities on the greens.