Rory McIlroy sets US Open Record for 36 Holes

Rory McIlroy, the 22 year-old Irish golf phenom, has just set the U.S. Open record for the best score after 36 holes in the 111-year history of the tournament.

McIlroy’s two-round total of 131 (11 under par) bested Ricky Barnes‘ record- set in 2009 at Bethpage- by a single stroke.

On top of that feat, McIlroy, after birdies at holes 16 and 17, became the first man to reach 13 under par- breaking the low-score record previously held by Tiger Woods (2000) and Gil Morgan (1992), who both reached 12 under at Pebble Beach.

McIlroy, who currently maintains an eight-shot lead over Y.E. Yang, would be the youngest person to win the US Open since Bobby Jones back in 1923.

Sergio Garcia, 9 strokes behind Rory, had the following to say about the leader’s play:

“I hope he wins – he deserves it – he’s a wonderful kid.”

To view the live 2011 U.S. Open leaderboard, visit PGA Tour’s Website.

via LATimes