Tough stretch leaves Mcllroy and rivals on shaky ground

THE dreaded 'Green Mile' will decide the US PGA Championship on Sunday — as the world's top three players found out the hard way in their opening round.

- By Rich Jones at Quail Hollow

The daunting three-hole stretch to close out at Quail Hollow threatened to chew up and spit out the very best in the sport.

For Rory McIlroy, a moment of magic on 18 limited the damage on the hole where he hopes he will be celebrating his sixth Major win on Sunday.

But he now faces an uphill task after his driving deserted him and his worst round at the course since 2011 — a three-over 74 - left him well adrift of the lead.

After winning The Masters to finally complete the career Grand Slam last month, McIlroy candidly said this week: "I've done everything I've wanted to do in the game. Everything beyond this is a bonus."

Playing with newfound freedom he even tapped in with his wedge after a chip shot almost dropped - at times he perhaps took his eye off the ball.