In Charlotte, Rory McIlroy made a striking comeback at the Truist Championship. After 27 holes, he drew on his Masters-winning form to power through the back nine with a 4-under 67, closing in on leader Sungjae Im, who's at 9-under.
Returning after his Masters win, McIlroy started 1-under, eight shots back. But birdies at Nos. 10, 11, 13, 15, and 16, inspired by a supportive crowd, propelled him up the ranks. He scored 32 on the back nine despite a near miss on par-4 18th.
McIlroy noted, "Good swings came as I got more playtime.” Meanwhile, Tommy Fleetwood posted another 67 to trail Im by one shot, and Alex Fitzpatrick, Justin Thomas, and Rickie Fowler—with a day's low of 63—are in the hunt.
Fleetwood commented on scoring well despite lacking his usual touch, while Im, familiar with Quail Hollow, looks to break a win drought since 2021, despite putting challenges. Justin Thomas, recovering from back surgery, is optimistic after a near double 67 round.