The two time Omega Dubai Desert Classic winner is looking good early on in the season's first World Golf Championships event.
The Northern Irishman fired an eight under par 63 to take a one shot lead over Dustin Johnson.
Meanwhile Justin Thomas and Matt Kuchar are two strokes back on seven under par.
Meanwhile 14-time major winner Tiger Woods is on level par, eight shots off the pace.
UAE, Saudi Arabia set for Gulf Cup final showdown
The UAE face hosts Saudi Arabia in the final of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup on Tuesday in Jeddah, with both sides aiming to end long waits for regional football's most prestigious title.
Djokovic wins China Open as de Minaur retires injured
Novak Djokovic won his seventh China Open title after Australia's Alex de Minaur retired with a groin injury during the final on Tuesday.
Alcaraz sinks Lehecka to retain Japan Open crown
Defending champion Carlos Alcaraz defeated unseeded Czech Jiri Lehecka 7-6(4) 6-4 in the Japan Open final on Tuesday to retain his title and continue his resurgence after a wrist injury.
McIlroy set for Dubai return at DP World Tour Championship in November
Seven-time Race to Dubai champion Rory McIlroy will tee it up at the DP World Tour Championship from November 12-15 at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, as he bids to draw level with Colin Montgomerie's record haul of eight Harry Vardon Trophies.
Kaur steps down as India women's team captain
World Cup-winning skipper Harmanpreet Kaur announced on Tuesday her decision to step down from her role as captain of the Indian women's team in all formats.
