Rory McIlroy's season of almosts could turn a new page this weekend at the 2024 BMW PGA Championship. Following up a 5-under 67 in Round 1 with a 68 on Friday, the world No. 3 sits in a share of fourth place at 9 under and four off the pace of 36-hole leader Matthew Baldwin.

The 38-year-old Baldwin shot 6-under 66 to set an unexpectedly hot pace at the BMW PGA Championship at 13 under, which tied the prestigious tournament’s 36-hole record. Many of Europe's top players – including Rory McIlroy, who shot 68 to be four strokes off the lead – were having a hard time getting near him.

Rory McIlroy already has an eye on 2025 despite being in the thick of the action at this week's BMW PGA Championship. Subtle swing changes have not hindered the Northern Irishman, who sits fourth in the leaderboard and four shots behind leader Matthew Baldwin at the halfway mark.