McIlroy off pace after Canadian Open first round

Rory McIlroy struggled to make it to the first round of the Canadian Open with a one-over-par 71.

In Ontario, the Northern Irishman shot three birdies but four bogeys, ten shots clear of Thorbjorn Olesen, who is now clubhouse leader.

An eagle, eight birdies, and a bogey were all part of Dane Olesen’s nine-under-par round of 61.

McIlroy won the Masters in April to complete his career grand slam, becoming the first major winner.

However, as he geared up for the US Open next week, he struggled to perform after his disappointing performance at the US PGA in May.

Irishman Shane Lowry carded a strong 64 to put the first round to six under, while England’s Danny Willett and defending champion Robert MacIntyre of Scotland and England’s Danny Willett were both a shot back.