McIlroy Dominates Penge in Thrilling World Tour Championship Open

Rory McIlroy took an early lead over Marco Penge in the World Tour Championship with a 6-under 66, placing him ahead in the Race to Dubai standings. Penge struggled, concluding with a 74. McIlroy, projected to be Europe's top player, is on path for a historic seventh title.

Rory McIlroy has taken a commanding lead against Marco Penge at the World Tour Championship, opening the competition with an impressive 6-under 66 score. McIlroy's skillful performance, featuring seven birdies, has positioned him strongly in the Race to Dubai standings.

Meanwhile, Penge, hoping to unseat McIlroy's dominance, struggled with a series of bogeys, finishing the first round with a 74. Despite a birdie on the final hole, Penge faces an uphill battle to close the 767-point gap separating him from McIlroy.

As McIlroy eyes his seventh European No. 1 title, competitors like Tyrrell Hatton and Tommy Fleetwood continue their pursuits. Hatton, requiring a win and a low finish for McIlroy, opened with a 70, trailing behind current leader Michael Kim.

(With inputs from agencies.)