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Rory McIlroy in U.S. Open contention after first round

Rory McIlroy is well in contention after the first round of the U.S. Open

2026 U.S. OPEN - Round One
2026 U.S. OPEN - Round One
SOUTHAMPTON, NEW YORK - JUNE 18: Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland looks on during the first round of the 126th U.S. OPEN at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on June 18, 2026 in Southampton, New York. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
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Rory McIlroy is in the hunt.

The reigning Masters Champion, twice over, posted a 1-under score at Shinnecock Hills during the first round of the U.S. Open. It should be noted that one of his playing partners in Ludvig Aberg did so as well.

SOUTHAMPTON, NEW YORK - JUNE 18: Ludvig Åberg of Sweden plays a shot from the 16th tee during the first round of the 126th U.S. OPEN at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on June 18, 2026 in Southampton, New York. (Photo by Kate McShane/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, NEW YORK - JUNE 18: Ludvig Åberg of Sweden plays a shot from the 16th tee during the first round of the 126th U.S. OPEN at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on June 18, 2026 in Southampton, New York. (Photo by Kate McShane/Getty Images)
Getty Images

McIlroy and Aberg walked out of their first round one shot back of the lead that Sam Stevens held (at that point in time). There is still a lot of golf to be played, but Rory is in a strong position to contend for his 7th major championship. Obviously Aberg is in the same standing to potentially win his first.

It has been a long time was just last year when a player won multiple majors in the same season. Scottie Scheffler took home both the PGA Championship and Open Championship, something that Xander Schauffele did the year prior. So far this season only Rory and Aaron Rai (this season’s PGA Championship winner) have a chance to make it three years in a row for the sport at large.

Bring on Friday!

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