The Masters champion hit just five of 14 fairways Thursday at Aronimink and bogeyed his last four holes.

McIlroy labours to 74 as playing partners Jordan Spieth and Rahm steal early momentum

Rory McIlroy struggled with wayward tee shots in a four-over par 74 start Thursday at the PGA Championship, then was asked to describe his frustrating round at breezy Aronimink.

Rory McIlroy had a blister on his right pinky toe during practice rounds for the PGA Championship. That was the least of his worries Thursday at Aronimink.

Rory McIlroy’s first round at the PGA Championship was a struggle. It was also a learning experience.

The Masters champion hit just five of 14 fairways Thursday at Aronimink and bogeyed his last four holes.

Rory McIlroy revived his hopes of winning the PGA Championship with improved driving and a bogey-free round on Friday, then blamed a logjammed leaderboard on a poor course set-up.

Rory McIlroy and others had complained about the setup at Aronimink in first two rounds, but Round 3 is proving easier and a 66 put McIlroy squarely in the mix.

McIlroy enters Sunday’s round three shots back from the leader.