Rory McIlroy opened with a disappointing one-over 73 at the Dubai Desert Classic, leaving him eight strokes behind surprise leader Francesco Molinari. McIlroy’s round included a costly double-bogey seven on the 18th, while playing partner Tommy Fleetwood also shot 73. Defending champion Tyrrell Hatton fared better with a two-under 70.

Molinari, the 2018 Open champion, surged to the top with a stunning seven-under 65, featuring eight birdies. He holds a two-shot lead over Sweden’s Mikael Lindberg. The Italian’s form is a welcome surprise, given his recent struggles, and he now sets the pace in a competitive field that includes Shane Lowry and Patrick Reed.

The tournament at Emirates Golf Club is a key early-season test on the DP World Tour. McIlroy, a former winner here, faces a significant recovery to contend for the title. With live coverage on Sky Sports Golf, all eyes will watch if the star can mount a weekend charge or if Molinari can sustain his remarkable lead.