Rory McIlroy penalized two strokes for improving lie in Abu Dhabi

Rory McIlroy received a two-shot tournament penalty for improving his lie, despite denying any intent.

Golfer Rory McIlroy incurred a two-stroke penalty during his opening round at the Abu Dhabi Championship after officials ruled he illegally improved his lie. McIlroy acknowledged that the video evidence appeared incriminating, though he maintained he acted without any deliberate intent. The penalty contributed to a double-bogey on the affected hole, dampening his start to the tournament.

• The penaltyOfficials assessed a two-shot penalty following a review of video footage from the opening round.
• The reactionMcIlroy conceded the incident appeared poor visually but vehemently denied any deliberate cheating.
• The consequenceThe infraction occurred on a hole where the golfer ultimately carded a double-bogey.