Rory McIlroy three shots off the pace at Wells Fargo, Shane Lowry struggles

Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, waves after making a putt on the 17th hole during the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship golf tournament at Quail Hollow on Thursday, May 9, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina (Erik Verduzco/AP)

Rory McIlroy is three shots behind leader Xander Schauffele in second place after the first round of the Wells Fargo in Charlotte.

McIlroy had a strong start to the tournament with an eagle, three birdies and one bogey through the first nine holes, but slipped with three birdies and three bogeys on the back nine.

He finished with a four under par 67, putting him tied in second place with American Collin Morikawa and Sweden’s Alex Noren.

McIlroy, who has won the tournament twice, said Quai Hollow is one of his favourite courses and that he has “always had a great affinity for this place”.

He said following his round: “Playing in front of these fans, I feel like Charlotte has sort of taken me in as one of their own. It’s been a great journey. I’ve celebrated I think 13 of my last 15 birthdays here as well because obviously when the tournament falls.

“Some awesome memories, and obviously trying to keep making more of those.”

Shane Lowry finished +4 and is tied for 64th. Meanwhile, American Schauffele hit a seven under par 64 with six birdies and an eagle on the seventh hole while only dropping one shot.