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‘Today’s a new day’: Rory McIlroy fights off rules controversy with 11-birdie rout

One day after a costly rules controversy, Rory McIlroy fired a 63 to get within one shot of two former LIV stars who lead the tournament.

By Kevin Cunningham · Golf

Published: Friday, 6 November 2026 at 2:45 PM

Key Things to Know

Rory McIlroy shot a nine-under 63 featuring 11 birdies in round two of the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship.
McIlroy moved to 11 under, sitting one stroke behind co-leaders Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton.
The round followed a disputed two-stroke penalty McIlroy received for improving his lie during Thursday's opening round.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Rory McIlroy rebounded from a controversial two-shot penalty by shooting a nine-under-par 63 in the second round of the Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship. Despite an opening-hole bogey, McIlroy carded 11 birdies over his final 17 holes at Yas Links. The performance moved him to 11 under overall, placing him just one shot behind co-leaders Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton.

The penalty stemmed from an opening-round incident on Thursday where McIlroy was penalized for improving his lie on the 12th hole. McIlroy stated he accepted the ruling to ensure a clear conscience and avoid accusations of cheating. Meanwhile, Race to Dubai leader Eugenio Chacarra shot a 71, dropping eight shots behind McIlroy.

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‘Today’s a new day’: Rory McIlroy fights off rules controversy with 11-birdie rout

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