World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler delivered an impressive performance in the opening round of the Travelers Championship on Thursday, posting an 8-under-par 62 to share the lead with Austin Eckroat. Held at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut, the $20 million signature event saw Scheffler flirt with a rare round of 59 before finishing with par at the 16th and a bogey at the 17th.
Despite gusty winds and shifting conditions, the defending champion maintained sharp focus and precise ball-striking throughout most of the round.
Scheffler’s round came on the heels of defending the course’s challenge earlier in the week, stating that the venue wasn’t too easy despite recent low winning scores. After starting strong and getting to 9 under through 15 holes, Scheffler cooled slightly but still tied Eckroat at the top. His playing partner, JJ Spaun, coming off a US Open win, struggled to a 3-over 73, while Jordan Spieth withdrew midway due to a neck and upper back issue.
Austin Eckroat, 26, delivered a bogey-free 62 that included an electric stretch of eagle-birdie-birdie from holes 13 to 15, highlighted by a 35-foot eagle putt. The Oklahoma State product, who won twice last year but has struggled this season, said it was satisfying to carry confidence from practice into competition. His round marked a significant bright spot in a season where he currently sits outside the FedEx Cup top 100.
Chasing closely behind the leaders are Rory McIlroy, Wyndham Clark, and Keegan Bradley, all finishing the day at 6-under 64. McIlroy, who played alongside Bradley—now Ryder Cup captain—received a chorus of “Captain America” chants from the crowd.
Cameron Young trails at 5 under, while a group at 4 under includes major names like Viktor Hovland, Tommy Fleetwood, and Jason Day. The tournament, which has no 36-hole cut, continues Friday with heightened expectations around Scheffler’s quest to defend his title.
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