- The first round of the Abu Dhabi Championship got underway today.
- Henrik Stenson impressed just 6 weeks after his knee injury.
- Bryson Dechambeau leads on 64.
Rory McIlroy’s opening tee shot of the year. #ADGolfChamps https://t.co/tvLS3NghWH
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) January 21, 2016
Jordan Spieth had 24 putts but only 11 greens in regulation as he shot 68. Rory was on supreme form hitting 16 greens in regulation to shoot 66 and finish on -6. The world number three had a driving average around the 290-yard mark and hit 70% of fairways. Statistically Jordan gains 8 strokes on Rory with his putter per tournament, and this morning was a masterclass in salvaging a round with the most important club in the bag.
“Those greens are rolling about as pure as any I’ve ever putted on!” Spieth after his 24-putt opening round 68. pic.twitter.com/kybm8YjLzX
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) January 21, 2016
Henrik Stenson shot 65 to finish second, which, considering his knee Surgery 6 weeks ago, was a phenomenal effort.
FYI, this was @HenrikStenson six weeks ago. pic.twitter.com/yQ4cpQUZt9
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) January 21, 2016
Henrik showed why he is considered to be one the finest ball strikers in the world as he peppered the flag all day…
FYI, Henrik Stenson was dialled in today. ???? https://t.co/k6Ui2UEbX0
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) January 21, 2016
The biggest shock was Bryson DeChambeau taking the lead with 64. The US Amateur Champion is 644th in the world.
The face of a man who just took the lead! US Amateur champ Bryson DeChambeau shoots 64. https://t.co/XiIsP3pWGg pic.twitter.com/09JX0cI83i
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) January 21, 2016