World number one Scottie Scheffler fired a sensational opening-round 62 to grab a share of the lead at the Travelers Championship, while Rory McIlroy sits just two shots adrift after an impressive 64.
Scheffler, 28, looked back to his imperious best just days after finishing in the top 10 at the US Open. The highlight of his round came with an eagle on the par-five 13th, part of a blemish-free display at TPC River Highlands in Connecticut.
The defending champion shares the top spot on eight under with fellow American Austin Eckroat. Close behind are five-time major winner McIlroy, Keegan Bradley, and Wyndham Clark, all carding rounds of 64.
Speaking after his round, McIlroy played down any leaderboard talk, instead focusing on his process:
“I just want to see some good golf and see some better shots. I think if you concentrate on that and you are concentrating on your quality of golf and trying to play to the best of your ability, the result will take care of itself.”
The Northern Irishman added,
“There’s no point in thinking about the result right now. I’m just trying to play as good as I can and make good swings.”
There was disappointment, however, for Jordan Spieth. The three-time major champion was forced to withdraw midway through his round due to a shoulder injury. Spieth, who was five over par through 13 holes and had yet to register a birdie, informed playing partner Luke Clanton he could not continue and left the course in a cart.
“I’ve never withdrawn from an event ever, anywhere, at any level, so I didn’t really know what to do,” Spieth admitted. “It just became too much… no matter what I was going to do, it was just going to be— I don’t know, it’s unfortunate.”
With the course in pristine condition and the leaderboard already crowded at the top, the stage is set for a thrilling weekend at one of the PGA Tour’s most competitive stops.