Written by AKSH GUPTA

 

The opening day of the historic DP World India Championship at the iconic Delhi Golf Club had everything — drama, birdies, eagles, and a roaring home crowd that witnessed Indian golf’s finest take on the world’s best.

 

Ireland’s Shane Lowry stole the spotlight early, firing a flawless bogey-free 64 (-8) to grab the Round 1 lead. The Ryder Cup winner went on a breathtaking five-birdie streak from holes 11 to 15, finishing with eight birdies in total and setting the pace for what promises to be a thrilling week of golf.

 

 

Ireland's Shane Lowry during Round 1 of DP World India Championship

 

But it was the Indian charge that electrified the Delhi galleries. Veteran Rahil Gangjee produced a sensational finish, eagling the par-5 18th hole to sign off at five-under (-5) — placing him T4, just three shots behind leader Lowry and as the best-placed Indian on Day 1.

 

 

 

India's Rahil Gangjee during Round 1 of DP World India Championship

 

Adding to India’s heroics, Dhruv Sheoran made his mark with an explosive eagle on the very first hole, carding a superb -4 (T7) finish alongside Ryder Cup star Tommy Fleetwood. The young Indian showed nerves of steel, thriving under pressure and feeding off the energy of the passionate home fans.

 

Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, making his much-anticipated India debut, carded a solid -3 (T17) to stay well in contention — tied with India’s Yuvraj Sandhu, who also impressed with a composed and confident round. Anirban Lahiri followed closely at -2 (T28), ensuring a strong Indian presence on the leaderboard.

 

 

Northern Ireland's Rory Mcilroy during Round 1 of DP World India Championship

 

With a USD 4 million prize purse, the event has drawn some of the biggest names in global golf, but it was India’s very own who stole hearts on Thursday. The crowd at Delhi Golf Club was electric, turning out in thousands to witness this once-in-a-generation sporting spectacle — live streamed exclusively on the FanCode app.

 

As the sun set over the DGC, the message was clear: India is here to compete. With Rahil Gangjee and Dhruv Sheoran flying high, and Rory McIlroy chasing from behind, Round 2 promises even more fireworks at this unforgettable DP World India Championship.

Watch the Full Leaderboard here.