Martin Kaymer takes first-round lead in Abu Dhabi

Kaymer takes first-round lead in Abu Dhabi

Rory McIlroy has kicked off his year with an opening-round five-under 67 to find himself three shots off the pace at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.

The world number one knocked in five birdies in six holes to share fourth spot, alongside America's Rickie Fowler who bogeyed the final hole.

Martin Kaymer, a three-time winner of this event, knocked in 10 birdies of his own to record a round of 64 and take an early lead in the United Arab Emirates.

Belgium's Thomas Pieters sits one shot back, meanwhile, with five players - including England's Tyrrell Hatton - left tied on six-under 66 at the end of day one.

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