Returning for the first time since 2013 on this course reserved for 20 golfers, McIlroy is positioned from the start, as 17 of the 25 best players in the world compete.
The 32-year-old Northern Irishman is aiming for his third win of the season after his successes on the PGA Tour at Quail Hollow in May and the CJ Cup in October.
His year was also marked by the disillusionment experienced at the time of the Ryder Cup, lost to the United States in September.
© 2021 AFP