Two players many expected to play well this week, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, flopped in the first round of the U.S. Open on Thursday.

Rory McIlroy Faces Backlash After Controversial Decision Following Poor U.S. Open Start originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Rory McIlroy was off to a hot start on Thursday morning in the opening round of the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club, going out in two-under par through his opening nine holes.

Rory McIlroy started off hot in the first round of the U.S. Open on Thursday, but a brutal finish to his round leaves him well off the lead after 18 holes.

Starting his day on the 10th hole at Oakmont Country Club, McIlroy shot 33-41 for a 4-over 74. His inward half includ

U.S. Open is officially underway with four rounds of pristine, difficult golf rolling one of the United States' most notable courses. A massive field featuring 156 golfers kicked off the tournament Thursday all hoping to complete 72 holes at Oakmont Country Club,

McIlroy simply wasn't sharp enough on Day 1. After an opening 74 where he did no interviews, perhaps the Masters champ is still worn out.

Rory McIlroy has reached the saturation point when it comes to discussing his driver. The non-conforming driver at the PGA Championship? He's a "little pissed off" the results became public and would like to move on.

J.J. Spaun carded a four-under opening round to lead the US Open at Oakmont, and the 34-year-old believes his recent play-off loss to Rory McIlroy has helped him in the long run