BMW Championship: Rory McIlroy makes triple bogey after finding water, slips four behind Keegan Bradley

A costly blunder spoiled what had the makings of a brilliant opening round for Rory McIlroy at the BMW Championship. McIlroy suggested Wilmington Country Club could suit his game and for the majority of his round that proved to be the case. Ad But he made a triple bogey on the 15th hole to drop him to three-under, four behind leader Keegan Bradley.

BMW Championship'What am I doing here?’ — Noren reflects on decision to walk out on Open chance9 HOURS AGO The Irishman had a point to prove in the second event of the FedEx Cup play-offs after missing the cut at TPC Southwind. One week on, he produced some impressive play only to unpick the good work on 15. He made an early statement by chipping in on the first for a birdie, after his approach went through the back of the green.

Further birdies on three, five and seven saw him turn in 31. McIlroy is one of the finest drivers in the game, but he was wayward on occasions. He scrambled when required, and when the driver was in tune — as was the case with a 387-yard tee shot on 14 — it led to a tap-in birdie.

After getting to six-under, McIlroy undid all the good work with a huge blunder on the 15th. On the par three, he attempted a fade — which is not his natural shot shape. The ball did not turn as he anticipated and splashed into the water guarding the green on the left.

Once he found dry ground, McIlroy three-putted in sloppy fashion for a triple bogey as he signed for a 68. First Round Leaderboard 1. Keegan Bradley, seven-under 2.

Adam Scott, six-under T3. Harold Varner III, five-under T3. Shane Lowry, five-under T3.

Justin Thomas, five-under T6. Chez Reavie, four-under T6. Collin Morikawa, four-under T6.