A round of attrition wasn’t exactly what Tiger Woods wanted on his return to competitive golf after a five-month break, but the stormy conditions at the Memorial Tournament accomplished just that. US Open met with the PGA Tour in Ohio.
A remarkable day for a 423-yard run by Bryson DeChambeau seemed to belong to Woods as he ran to two under par within three holes. Given the champion’s 15-time lack of tournaments, a subsequent regression was not entirely surprising. “The tiger is not sharp,” observed observer Jack Nicklaus. Still, Woods’ under par 71 was impressive given the context. A little birdie at 18 sent Woods to the scoring store with a smile.
“I wish I had started with easier conditions,” Woods admitted. “Wind blowing and spinning all over the place. It felt good. It was a little rusty, but I felt it was a good start overall.
“I certainly felt nervous, nervous and anxious to play. Going out and feeling something that I hadn’t felt in a long time, it felt good. ”
Rory McIlroy, playing in the company of Woods, is better than a hit. The Northern Irishman nodded approvingly at Woods’ “big start”. McIlroy added: “I was hitting him very well. I had most of the things under control today. I’ve always liked playing with him because of the rhythm he has. “So that he doesn’t forget, this was also a positive day for McIlroy.
DeChambeau, who has drawn attention since the resumption of the PGA Tour due to displays of extreme power, hit the puck in question on 1st. It was wind-assisted but still remarkable, even to those who believe that modern equipment is distorting the sport. “Sometimes I can’t believe it,” said DeChambeau. “There were years when I hit five iron in that hole and now I’m hitting a small 30-yard shot. It is wild. It’s a blessing that he’s been able to work things out with the driver. “That DeChambeau signed for a 73 means, fortunately, golf is not rocket science yet.
Tony Finau’s 66 means he claimed the lead at the end of the first day. Dustin Johnson, the former World No. 1, stumbled upon an 80 by including four sixes. “Been there,” fans shouted in unison.
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