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Rory McIlroy kicked off his 2026 season at the Dubai Invitational with a strong opening round, shooting 5-under 66 to take the early lead at the DP World Tour event. He holds a one-shot advantage over David Puig and Connor Syme.
Playing with a new set of cavity-back irons and the latest 2026 golf ball, McIlroy started hot, carding four birdies in his first five holes and adding three more before finishing his round at Dubai Creek Resort. The switch to cavity-back irons comes after struggles with his mid irons last season, where his approach game notably declined despite strong putting stats.
McIlroy explained that the new irons, built by TaylorMade, feel better in turf and have helped him regain confidence in his long game. Despite lacking the big motivational goals of previous years, he said he enjoys the process of improvement and hard work, which keeps him driven.
“If you make the work the important part, it becomes your lifestyle,” McIlroy said. His solid start in Dubai suggests he’s ready for another competitive year.
