Rory McIlroy posted a 5-under 66 to open the Genesis Invitational, overcoming challenging conditions at Riviera Country Club. The tournament faced a three-hour rain delay in the morning, followed by brutal 20-plus mph wind gusts that tested all players.
McIlroy birdied twice in his first three holes before the delay, then birdied his first hole after the break. Despite a bogey at the 16th, he recovered with a birdie at the 17th to briefly share the lead before Aaron Rai passed him with a late birdie as play was suspended for darkness. "I've started to really enjoy this style of golf," McIlroy said, noting his improved comfort in difficult conditions compared to a decade ago.