Rory McIlroy takes took the first round lead in the Dubai Desert Classic, surpassing top the three golfers in the world with 7-under 65 shots on Thursday.

He was four shots ahead of Lee Westwood, who currently ranked no. 1 in the Official World Golf Rankings and Martin Kaymer, who ranked no. 2. Also, he was six shots ahead of Tiger Woods.

McIlroy only had a European Tour win in Dubai a couple of years ago. He wasn’t able to defend his title at the 2010 Dubai Desert Classic. But, he ranked seventh at the Official World Golf Rankings.

The professional golfer from Northern Ireland had eight birdies and one bogey to go at the annual golf tournament held at Emirates Golf Club. He obtained the early lead and held on to it. Both Thomas Aiken and Sergio followed by two shots.

Woods had 71 shots, but he experienced some problems earlier in the day. He scored two under par at the 18th hole following a 3-wood hit 250 yards to the green.

However, much of the attraction in the opening round focused on the top three golfers. The English golfer, Lee Westwood had several hits to get four birdies. He wavered toward the end as he missed out another birdie. On the 18th hole, he scored a lone bogey when the ball fell short of the green and almost rolled into the water.

Kaymer, who received a double bogey, hit the grandstand on the ninth hole where the ball ended up in water. He had six birdies and barely missed an eagle putt. Woods had moments of difficulty and brilliance throughout his round. The difficulties were evident by his actions.

Last month, McIlroy was a runner-up at the Abu Dhabi Championship. He also triumphed at the 2009 Quail Hollow Championship. He said he benefited from the effort he made on his swing this week and in the offseason.