Irish golfer Rory McIlroy brushed off a rules controversy during his opening round at the Players Championship, insisting that he will proceed with a clear conscience. Despite the disturbance, McIlroy managed to recover and post an impressive score of 65 at Sawgrass, allowing him to share the early lead with Xander Schauffele.

The incident occurred at the 7th hole, where McIlroy's tee shot bounced off a bank and landed in a lake. The crucial question was whether the ball had crossed the red hazard line, determining McIlroy's options for his next shot. While McIlroy was confident that the ball landed above the line, doubt crept in when Victor Hovland suggested it was a close call.

Supporting Hovland's doubt, Jordan Spieth stated that the spectators on the other side of the fairway, who were reportedly certain the ball landed below the line, couldn't make an accurate judgment. However, television footage seemed to indicate that McIlroy was in the right. Despite Spieth's interventions, McIlroy refrained from criticizing him, believing that Spieth was merely looking out for fairness.

Addressing the controversy, McIlroy emphasized his commitment to playing by the rules and doing the right thing. He expressed his belief in karma, asserting that if one does something wrong, it will eventually have consequences. McIlroy felt confident that he made the correct decision in his drops and remained steadfast in his assertion that the ball had crossed above the hazard line.

While Spieth and Hovland did not address the matter after the round, McIlroy commended Spieth's intentions, stating that he believed Spieth was trying to ensure fairness for all players. McIlroy acknowledged that the absence of TV evidence complicated the situation and added that he was being conservative in his actions.

McIlroy's performance on the course was remarkable, as he carded an impressive 10 birdies throughout his round. This outstanding display allowed him to share the early lead with Xander Schauffele, showcasing his resilience and ability to put the controversial incident behind him.

As the tournament progresses, the focus will undoubtedly shift to McIlroy's performance and his ability to sustain his position at the top of the leaderboard. The lingering controversy surrounding the rules incident may continue to be a topic of discussion, but McIlroy remains unfazed, focusing on his game and the quest for victory.

The Players Championship promises further excitement, with intense competition expected among the world-class golfers vying for the prestigious title. Only time will tell if McIlroy's strong start will lead him to ultimate success in this high-stakes tournament.