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.

Police detain organiser of Messi visit after Indian fans rip up seats
Patel dominates as Mumbai take Game 1 of United Series
UAE though to Arab Cup semi-finals after beating Algeria on penalties
Dubai Basketball claim thrilling win over Bayern Munich in EuroLeague
Salah in Liverpool squad for Brighton match
