Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy marked his first PGA Tour event of the year with an impressive two-shot victory at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
The 35-year-old finished with a six-under 66 to win on 21 under par, his 27th victory on the PGA Tour – and first at the iconic California course.
Having started the day one behind Austria’s Sepp Straka, an eagle on the par-five 14th proved crucial as the four-time major winner moved three clear of Ireland’s Shane Lowry, who emerged as the closest challenger.
“I knew today was going to be tough and exciting, there were so many guys around the lead,” said McIlroy.
“I had to put that to the back of my mind try to shoot a score, which I was able to do.
“To have that walk up 18 and take it all in was really cool.”