The back to back Masters champion is in a stellar group alongside fellow major champions Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth for rounds one and two
One major played in 2026, and one major won for Rory McIlroy. On Thursday, he begins the second leg of golf’s major trail for the season at the USPGA in Aronimink in Philadelphia.
The back to back Masters champion is in a stellar group alongside fellow major champions Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth for rounds one and two.
McIlroy was struggling with a foot problem during his first practice round ahead of the US PGA Championship. The Holywood man revealed during last week’s Truist Championship that he had a blister on the small toe of his right foot.
He arrived at the course on Monday and addressed the media on Tuesday morning, appearing in good spirits, but reportedly ripped the nail off his toe earlier this week.
The 37-year-old ended his practice round after a few holes, having been seen limping and at one point taken his shoe off to assess the problem, but had previously done extensive range and short-game practice.
Earlier, McIlroy had underlined his motivation after landing successive Masters titles, saying: “Coming into this tournament feels a lot different than what it did last year.
“I feel like I’ve got some nice clear road ahead to try to get some more of these majors.”
Fellow Holywood golf club man Tom McKibbin is also in action at the USPGA and tees off early at 12.40pm UK time.
Here is everything you need to know about round one:
Where is the USPGA tournament?
The PGA Championship returns to Aronimink Golf Club, Pennsylvania for the first time in 64 years.
What time does Rory McIlroy tee off on Thursday?
1.40pm (UK time)
Who is in his group?
Jon Rahm and Jordan Spieth
Who is defending champion?
Scottie Scheffler
Who are the favourites?
Scottie Scheffler is 11/2 favourite. Rory McIlroy is 10/1, Cameron Young 14/1, Jon Rahm 14/1, Xander Schauffele and Ludvig Aberg are 18/1 with Bryson DeChambeau 20/1.
Is the USPGA being televised?
Subscribers can catch every shot on Sky Sports Golf, who will be live from 12.30pm on Thursday and Friday. They will be live until at least midnight, when the final groups complete their rounds.
At the weekend, live coverage will begin at 3pm on Saturday and 4pm on Sunday and the PGA Championship will remain on air for some time after the winner is crowned.
Click here to sign up to our sport newsletter, bringing you the latest sports news, headlines and top stories
You must be logged in to post a comment Login