Rory McIlroy's New Personal Record at US Open Is Turning Heads originally appeared on Athlon Sports. It has been quite a stretch for Rory McIlroy in recent weeks, mostly filled with lows for the PGA Tour star ahead of the U.S. Open. If McIlroy's start at Oakmont is any indication, things could be turning around for the golfer.

Rory McIlroy has struggled with his game and his motivation since completing the career Grand Slam. He now faces the sternest of challenges at Oakmont.

After a sparkling opening nine holes, Rory McIlroy posted his first bogey of the U.S. Open and made a beeline across the concrete bridge that spans the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Not a soul was within 15 feet.