Spieth’s mastery of Travelers continues
CROMWELL, Conn. — Jordan Spieth has no idea what it is like to play from behind at the Travelers Championship.
The defending champion led after every round last year in his first visit to TPC River Highlands and a shot a 7-under-par 63 on Thursday to match Zach Johnson for the firstround lead.
Spieth had six birdies and an eagle out the bunker on par-5 sixth hole — a shot reminiscent of the greenside bunker shot that gave him a victory last year over Daniel Berger in a playoff.
Johnson went out in the morning and led for most of the day. He had eight birdies, including six straight on the back nine, one off than the course record.
Rory Mcilroy missed a 13foot putt for par on the final hole that would have given him a share of the lead and finished in a three-way tie for third place with Brian Harmon and Peter Malnati.
Mcilroy, who like Spieth missed the cut in the U.S. Open, said he’s been working on his swing since Saturday. He saw the practice pay off, hitting 17 greens with seven birdies during his round of 64.
A lot of golfers took advantage of the soft greens and favorable wind conditions Thursday. Twenty-two shot a 66 or better.
Brooks Koepka followed his second straight U.S. Open victory with a 68. Koepka, who started on the 10th tee, shot a 31 on his first nine but bogeyed four of his final six holes.
The Travelers was selected by the PGA last year as its “Tournament of the Year” and the “Players Choice.” That has helped attract a 156-player field that includes five of the world’s top 10-ranked golfers and all four reigning major championship winners.
At Pulheim, Germany, Sebastien Gros of France carded a 4-under 68 in windy conditions to take a one-shot lead after the opening round of the BMW International Open. Jorge Campillo, Scott Jamieson, Aaron Rai and Henric Sturehed were tied for second.
Defending champion Andres Romero was among a large group at 1 under, including 2013 winner Ernie Els and three-time European Tour winner Andy Sullivan. Local favorite and 2008 champion Martin Kaymer shot 72, ahead of Sergio Garcia (73) and Tommy Fleetwood (74).
European PGA: