Rory McIlroy shares Wells Fargo lead with an opening-round 67
RORY McILROY fired a five-under par 67 at Quail Hollow on Thursday for a seven-way share of the first-round lead in the Wells Fargo Championship in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The Northern Irishman, back at the scene of his first PGA Tour win, was joined by Americans Nick Watney, Ryan Moore, Robert Garrigus, Daniel Summerhays, Derek Ernst and Monday qualifier Nate Smith at the top of the leaderboard.
Another six players were one stroke back, including former Masters champions Phil Mickelson and Zach Johnson, and former US Open champion Lucas Glover.
McIlroy, still looking for his first tournament victory this year, struggled early in the season to find his top form after switching his golf ball and clubs.
McIlroy, who turns 24 tomorrow, said: "I've made big strides. My game wasn't where it should have been at all in the beginning of the year.
"Now I feel like I'm swinging it well. I've seen my game progress week by week.
"It's a nice start here this week."
Defending champion Fowler fired an even-par 72.