McIlroy navigated challenging conditions at the signature event, handling both a three-hour rain delay and 20-plus mile per hour wind gusts with ease. The world No. 3 birdied twice in his first three holes before the delay, and then added another birdie immediately after resuming play. 'I've started to really enjoy this style of golf,' McIlroy said. 'If you had asked me 10 years ago, I didn't enjoy these conditions, but it's been a shift in mindset.'
The four-time major champion showcased his skill by saving par from a difficult chip on the 6th hole, though he did make a bogey on the 16th. He responded with a birdie on the 17th to get back into a share of the lead before play was suspended for the day. Aaron Rai eventually passed him with a late birdie, taking the outright lead as darkness halted play.