Canadian Open: Matt Fitzpatrick once led Wyndham Clark for the first time; Rory McIlroy strong start | Golf News

Wyndham Clark led a shot ahead of Matt Fitzpatrick, with Harold Varner III two back in third with Doug Pins; Rory McIlroy three behind – watch live throughout the week on Sky Sports Golf, with early news also being streamed live on the Sky Sports Golf YouTube channel

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Highlights of the Canadian Open opening round from St George’s Golf and Country Club.

Matt Fitzpatrick took the lead after the opening round of the RBC Canadian Open, as defending champion Rory McIlroy also got off to a strong start.

Fitzpatrick, in pursuit of his first PGA Tour championship, matched seven birds with a single capricorn to score a six under 64 at the St. George, keeping the British tennis player in touch with original frontman Wyndham Clark.

Starting in ninth again, Fitzpatrick followed up with a birdie-birdie start by jumping from 45 feet in the 13th minute and picking another shot from 10 meters in the 17th minute to take a turn at 32.

Fitzpatrick is playing with Shane Lowry who is under 67 with triples

Fitzpatrick saw a third-half birdie aborted as he missed from four feet to save par in the next game, only to consume an eighth-round 35-footer and two 10-foot putts. to add a bogey close above par – ninth Thursday.

“Really, really happy with the way I’m playing today, just solid around,” said Fitzpatrick. “There are a few chances to get a little closer, but other than that, I’m really picky. Everything in my game is going well. So yeah, I’m happy with the start. “

Clark set the pace after catching five of his eight openings en route to a no-magic 63, while McIlroy slowed to three after starting his title defense with four under 66.

“A really solid start, 66 around here is a good point,” McIlroy said. “Overall very happy with the start of the week, especially after a disappointing weekend at the Memorial last weekend. Great to be back with a good score.”

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Rory McIlroy says he is not reluctant or jealous of the players who have taken part in the LIV Tour and admits he will keep an eye on London.

Shane Lowry scored three under 67, when world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler joined Justin Thomas in the opening game of 69 despite playing the first two and final two holes in an eventful inning.

Tyrrell Hatton overcame his last three holes to claim the four-of-74 title, while world number four Cameron Smith was in danger of missing out after failing to register a birdie and missed four of his final five holes. in the opening round 76.

Watch the RBC Canada Open live throughout the week on Sky Sports. Live coverage will resume Friday from 11:45 a.m. via the red button on Sky Sports Golf and for free on the Sky Sports Golf YouTube channel.