Rory McIlroy navigated challenging conditions at the Genesis Invitational, posting a 5-under 66 to briefly share the lead after the first round. Despite a three-hour rain delay and persistent 20-plus mile-per-hour wind gusts at Riviera Country Club, McIlroy showed exceptional composure, birdying his first three holes before the delay and then adding another immediately after play resumed.
The world No. 3 nearly went bogey-free on the day, save for a slip at the par-3 16th, but quickly responded with a birdie on the 17th to get back into contention. McIlroy noted his improved comfort with difficult conditions, saying, 'I've started to really enjoy this style of golf' and acknowledging his better preparation for challenging weather compared to a decade ago.