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Im Solo Lead; McIlroy 67, Fowler 63 Spark Chase

5/9/2026

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Summary

McIlroy Posts 67

Rory McIlroy shot a four-under 67, moving to five-under and four shots behind leader Sungjae Im.
Rory McIlroy made five back-nine birdies, hit 14 straight greens, posted a 32 on that nine.
Sungjae Im kept solo lead at nine-under after rounds of 64 and 69.
Tommy Fleetwood posted a 67 to sit one shot off the lead.
Rickie Fowler’s eight-under 63 moved Rickie Fowler to T9.

Summary

McIlroy Rebounds

Rory McIlroy said his round felt solid, noting extra putts and a closer approach on the par-threes gave him confidence and helped him re-enter the hunt.
Tommy Fleetwood sits second on eight-under after consecutive 67s.
Alex Fitzpatrick, after winning the Zurich Classic of New Orleans with brother Matt, now shares third place with Justin Thomas at seven-under.
Korea’s Sungjae Im recorded a 69 that included three birdies and one bogey.

History

Historical Context

In 2008 the Ryder Cup moved to Valhalla Golf Club, where Europe beat the United States 16½–11½, reflecting the continent’s dominance after the event opened to all European players in 1979. Europe’s nine victories since 2000 and the shift from the original Great Britain-US rivalry have made the competition a regular test of collective strength, echoed today by stars like Rory McIlroy and Sergio García.

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McIlroy Posts 67

Rory McIlroy shot a four-under 67, moving to five-under and four shots behind leader Sungjae Im.
Rory McIlroy made five back-nine birdies, hit 14 straight greens, posted a 32 on that nine.
Sungjae Im kept solo lead at nine-under after rounds of 64 and 69.
Tommy Fleetwood posted a 67 to sit one shot off the lead.
Rickie Fowler’s eight-under 63 moved Rickie Fowler to T9.

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