Rory McIlroy four behind Martin Kaymer at Grand Slam event

Rory McIlroy carded five birdies and three bogeys in his first round in the 36-hole event

Rory McIlroy is four behind leader Martin Kaymer at the Grand Slam of Golf after firing an opening two-under-par 69 in Bermuda.

The Open and US PGA champion birdied three of his opening seven holes before his momentum was halted by successive bogeys at the seventh and eighth.

Two further birdies and a bogey followed on his back nine.

Kaymer's 65 included an eagle and five birdies, with Bubba Watson on 67 and Jim Furyk on 72 in the 36-hole event.

The annual event features each year's four major champions in action, while Furyk received his invitation because of McIlroy's double triumph in 2014.

World number one McIlroy felt his round had been affected by a "few sloppy shots".

"I wasn't 100% on, that's for sure," the 25-year-old said.

"I started pretty well, and then the two bogeys on eight and nine sort of took the wind out of my sails a little bit and I just found it hard to get going after that.

"At one point in the round, it felt like Martin was leaving us all behind, but I'm still there. Get off to a good start tomorrow, you never know what can happen."

McIlroy compared the atmosphere more to a friendly four-ball outing than the tension-packed major atmosphere all have felt simply to qualify for the event.

"We're still concentrating, still trying to play good golf and ultimately try and win. But, yeah, it's more relaxed, you chat a little bit more."

The two-day event concludes on Wednesday.