Aaron Rai, Joakim Lagergren tied atop BMW PGA Championship as Rory McIlroy loses late ground

Aaron Rai and Sweden's Joakim Lagergren share the lead after the first round of the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, both shooting 6-under 66 on Thursday. Rory McIlroy had a promising start with five birdies on the back nine but stumbled on the front nine with three bogeys — including shots into trees, a bunker, and water — finishing with a 69 to sit tied for 19th place. McIlroy acknowledged the disappointing finish, describing it as a 'stumble home' following a quiet week at the Irish Open.