McIlroy's Masters, Round 1: Rory finishes with 1-under 71

Rory McIlroy followed Jack Nicklaus's advice to the letter.

The world No. 1 was patient, and actually just a touch too safe Thursday, finishing his first round at the Masters at 1-under par, four shots off the lead.

Related: Jack Nicklaus advises Rory McIlroy to be patient ahead of Masters

After four straight pars to begin his round, McIlroy answered a bogey on the 6th with a birdie on No. 7 before scratching down a couple more pars for an even-par 36. He dropped to 1-over with a lost stroke around Amen Corner, but responded with a pair of birdies down the stretch.

''I just kept telling myself to be patient out there today,'' McIlroy said. ''It was a tricky day. The wind was swirling a little bit. Pin positions were tough. Anything under par I felt was a pretty good score. It was nice to pick up a couple birdies on the back nine on the par 5s there. Pretty satisfied with today's work.''

McIlroy's score matches his second-best opening-round total at Augusta. He also shot 71 last year.

- With files from The Associated Press