Rory McIlroy finds distraction from breakup with Caroline Wozniacki

On the week when he broke off his star-studded engagement to tennis star Caroline Wozniacki, golfer Rory McIlroy was hoping to find some welcome distraction on the course.

It seems to be working.

Playing at the BMW PGA Championship in Britain, McIlroy shot a 71 for Friday’s second round to remain near the top of the leaderboard at 5-under.

“I don’t think you’d be a human being if it wasn’t tough,” he said after the first round. “But once I had my mind focused on the task at hand, it made it a little easier.”

McIlroy and Wozniacki had been dating since 2011. He announced their split just days after the wedding invitations were sent out.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, he told reporters: “Everyone has been through breakups, and it’s obviously very, very difficult. But look, I’m here to try and concentrate on this week and answer questions about golf, and that’s what I’m going to do.”

His performance in wet, uncomfortable weather at Wentworth Club has included three eagles.

“I scored really well,” he said. “I took advantage of the holes that you need to.”

With play continuing on Friday, Thomas Bjorn held the lead at 8-under.