Rory McIlroy begins Italian Open with superb 67 despite slow start

GOOD START: Rory McIlroy recovered from a slow start to shoot 67 in the first round of the Italian Open. Pic: Adam Davy/PA

Rory McIlroy recovered from a slow start to live up to his billing as the pre-tournament favourite in the first round of the DS Automobiles Italian Open.

Starting on the back nine at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club, the venue for next year’s Ryder Cup, McIlroy was one over par after eight holes and threw his ball away in frustration following a bogey on the 17th.