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Rory McIlroy Battles Back Injury at Players Championship

3/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rory McIlroy struggled at The Players Championship in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, due to a recent back injury.
He opened with a 2-over 74.
He followed with a 1-under 71 to sit at 1-over near the projected cut line.
He struggled with his putting, missing several birdie opportunities.
Xander Schauffele leads the tournament at 10-under as weather conditions fluctuate.

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Story summary

Rory McIlroy struggled at The Players Championship in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, due to a recent back injury.
He opened with a 2-over 74.
He followed with a 1-under 71 to sit at 1-over near the projected cut line.
He struggled with his putting, missing several birdie opportunities.
Xander Schauffele leads the tournament at 10-under as weather conditions fluctuate.