Australian Open: Carlos Ortiz shares lead after late surge, Rory McIlroy falters

McIlroy managed five birdies but was undone by six bogeys.

Rory McIlroy reacts after his tee shot on the 17th hole during the first round of the Australian Open. Pic: AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake

Mexican Carlos Ortiz produced a late surge to grab a share of the lead with Elvis Smylie and Ryan Fox after a six-under-par 65 in Thursday's opening round of the Australian Open, while Rory McIlroy struggled in blustery conditions at Royal Melbourne, finishing with a one-over 72.

Smylie, 23, son of former Australian tennis player Elizabeth Smylie, delighted home fans with seven birdies against a lone bogey. New Zealand's Fox matched the leading score in the event co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour, with eight birdies and two bogeys.