Rory McIlroy begins his PGA Championship round with early birdies, moving up the leaderboard after a less-than-ideal start. One report says he is in the rough off the tee on the first hole but recovers to make par. From there, McIlroy records birdies and builds momentum, described as a “march” up the standings. The coverage emphasizes how he responds to the difficult first tee shot and then capitalizes on subsequent chances to post a stronger score. Overall, the accounts agree that McIlroy’s early performance features a recovery from rough on the opening hole followed by a sequence of birdies that improves his position on the leaderboard. Both outlets frame the start as setting up an upward push during the round, with early scoring gains coming shortly after he steadies his play.