ATLANTA — Even Scottie Scheffler had to break out into a broad smile after watching his playing partner, Rory McIlroy, convert a 17-foot birdie putt on the home hole at East Lake Golf Club Thursday afternoon. He was rather relieved, too.

Masters champion Rory McIlroy drew a fortuitous break during the first round of the Tour Championship at East Lake.

World No. 2 Rory McIlroy has opted out of multiple PGA Tour events this season and has announced that he will continue to skip competitions next term, while also taking a subtle jab at LIV Golf