LOS ANGELES – In a scene that’s become familiar in recent years, Rory McIlroy began his final round at the Northern Trust Open with impressive fireworks, walking in a 23-footer for eagle at the first to grab a share of the lead.
What followed didn’t look even remotely familiar.
The world No. 3 played his next 17 holes 6 over par for a closing 75 that matched his highest final round in a non-major PGA Tour event and a tie for 20th place.
“I was 12 under after the first hole today, play a solid round of golf after that and you have a great chance,” said McIlroy, who was making his 2016 Tour debut in Los Angeles.