Rory McIlroy goes low as Scottie Scheffler struggles again to open play at 2026 Genesis Invitational
CBS Sports
by
Patrick McDonald
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Rory McIlroy took center stage at the 2026 Genesis Invitational with a standout first-round performance, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler struggled to find his form. Despite challenging conditions—including heavy rain, a three-hour weather delay, and strong winds—McIlroy delivered a near-flawless round, finishing with a 5-under 66, the lowest score of his career at Riviera Country Club. This placed him just one stroke behind Aaron Rai, who led with an impressive -6. Scheffler, however, faced a tougher start, sitting 5 over through 10 holes and tied for last when play was suspended due to darkness.
McIlroy’s success came from his ability to adapt to the elements, showcasing his improved skillset in handling challenging weather. He praised his mindset shift over the years, emphasizing his comfort with low ball flight and controlling the ball under pressure. This adjustment has allowed him to thrive in adverse conditions, as he demonstrated by attacking the course early and making crucial birdies despite the wind and rain. Meanwhile, Scheffler’s struggles marked the third consecutive week where he has started slowly, raising questions about his form.
The tournament also featured other notable performances, with Collin Morikawa carding a 68 and Tommy Fleetwood continuing his impressive streak of low scores. Aaron Rai’s strong start, highlighted by an eagle and multiple birdies, put him in prime position to extend his lead when play resumes. McIlroy’s potential victory at Riviera would be historic, as he aims to achieve the 30-win milestone on the PGA Tour, a feat unmatched by tournament hosts Tiger Woods
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026