Rory McIlroy Aims to Defend Title at 2025 Truist Championship

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — The 2025 Truist Championship tees off Thursday at the Philadelphia Cricket Club‘s Wissahickon Course. Rory McIlroy returns as the defending champion, eager to maintain his title after winning the tournament at Quail Hollow last year.

The event, part of the PGA Tour, showcases some of the best golfers in the world as they compete for a significant victory. Round 1 will see players compete in threesomes with tee times adjusted to start from 8:00 a.m. to 10:01 a.m. due to expected rain.

Keith Mitchell holds the early lead with a remarkable score of 9-under 61 after posting a 6-under 29 in the first round. He leads Denny McCarthy by one stroke, while four players, including Collin Morikawa and Rickie Fowler, trail by two.

McIlroy started his title defense strong, registering a 4-under 66, positioning himself six strokes behind the current leader. The Northern Irishman aims to carry momentum from his recent Masters victory into this tournament.

In addition to the competition, fans can look forward to the new weekly PGA Tour show, ‘The Drop,’ among other broadcasts. ESPN+ provides streaming options throughout the tournament, including marquee groups and featured holes.

The Truist Championship lasts from May 8 to May 11, concluding just days before the second major of the year. As players gear up for an exciting four days, the focus remains firmly on McIlroy’s defense and the emerging challengers.