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.
Arsenal beat Man City 3-0 to win Community Shield
Arsenal beat Manchester City 3-0 in the Community Shield on Sunday, giving Mikel Arteta an early-season triumph while condemning new City boss Enzo Maresca to defeat in his first game in charge in the traditional curtain-raiser to the campaign.
Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement amid 'last year' claims
Cristiano Ronaldo has hinted that he may end his trophy-laden career at the end of this season.
Sri Lanka fight back through spinners but India 460-9
Sri Lanka struck back through spinners but Devdutt Padikkal's elegant 167 powered India to a commanding 460-9 in the rain-plagued opening test in Galle on Sunday.
Man arrested on suspicion of fraud after security operation disrupts European Championships
A man in his 30s was arrested and remains in custody on suspicion of fraud, West Midlands Police said on Sunday, after a security operation caused disruption at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham the previous evening.
Bangladesh claim first test win in Australia as Green ton in vain
Bangladesh has chased down 57 runs to complete a landmark nine-wicket victory over Australia in the series-opener in Darwin on Sunday in one of test cricket's greatest upsets.
