Defending champion Rory McIlroy dropped five shots off the lead after finishing his first round at the Hero Dubai Desert Classic.
McIlroy, who is chasing a record fifth title at the Emirates GC, and third in a row, birdied his 16th hole as he battled to a two-under opening round 70.
Tom McKibbin and Padraig Harrington were among the group of players who joined McIlroy in the clubhouse on 70, five behind Ricardo Gouveia and David Micheluzzi.
Portugal's Gouveia and Australia's Micheluzzi, who are ranked 405th and 225th in the world respectively, shared the first club lead after the 65th round.
“First competitive round of the year and first competitive round in a while,” McIlroy said Sky Sports. “A little uncomfortable because of some recordings.
“(But) I got it around me and got it in par, which is nice. I didn't drop out of the tournament which is the main thing.”
Northern Ireland's Tom McKibbin is among the players five behind club leaders Ricardo Gouveia and David Micheluzzi
McKibbin's reportedly imminent move to LIV Golf dominated the pre-kick-off agenda, with McIlroy admitting he would be “disappointed” if the 22-year-old joined the rogue Saudi-funded league ahead of his title defense in Dubai.
On the course, four birdies saw McKibbin sit three off the lead after 14 holes before a double bogey at the sixth left the Northern Irishman stuttering towards the end of his round.
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Hero Dubai Desert Classic on Sky Sports
Sky Sports will have extended coverage of all four rounds of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic, with featured groups live from 4am each morning Sky Sports Golf and bringing the bonus action before the main action.
Coverage continues at 7.30am on Friday before a 7am start over the weekend, with all four rounds of the PGA Tour American Express and Latin America Amateur Championship also broadcast on Sky Sports. Stream DP world tour, major items and more from NOW.