Rory McIlroy set the pace on the opening round of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic with a composed 65.
The Northern Irishman looked in determined mood in his golf clothing as his seven under par score sent him to the top of the leader board.
Having set out to topple the world's top three golfers, the 21-year-old showed the skill to back up his ambition as he hit four birdies on the back nine.
And even when he let a shot drop on the 16th, he hit back with a birdie on the next hole before closing with a par.
"It was a great way to start the tournament," he said. "I felt in control of my ball most of the day.
"Got away with a couple of tee shots on the 17th and on the second - apart from that, I played really well - really smart golf and took on the pins if I needed to and left ones alone that I didn't need to go at. It was just a very solid round of golf."