PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — The Players Championship turned into a race against time on Sunday when thunderstorms halted play right after Rory McIlroy surged into a one-shot lead on the back nine. The PGA Tour stopped play at 1:15 p.m. The final group had not completed the 11th hole, meaning a little more than two hours would be required to finish.

Rory McIlroy remained on top of the leaderboard Sunday afternoon after The Players Championship was delayed due to weather.

Shortly after Rory McIlroy had taken the lead at 12-under, play was suspended at The Players Championship due to lightning in the area.

McIlroy began the final round four shots off the lead but a brilliant start helped take the world number two to the top of the leaderboard.