The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass kicked off Thursday with a spectrum of performances on the course's famed island green, the 146-yard par-3 17th hole. The opening round witnessed an array of outcomes, from birdies to double bogeys, showcasing the unpredictable nature of this iconic hole. The 17th hole recorded 20 birdies, 98 pars, 16 bogeys, five double bogeys, two triples, one quad, and a staggering 11 balls in the water. Max Greyserman experienced the highest score on the hole with a seven, while Chad Ramey delivered the closest tee shot at a mere two feet, five inches. The hole demonstrated a green in regulation percentage of 79.6%, the second-highest achievement for any hole on the course that day.
Lucas Glover’s performance was notable as he scored nine birdies, bringing him to a six-under-par 66. This round catapulted him into a tie for the lead alongside Camilo Villegas and J.J. Spaun. Despite his mixed historical record at TPC Sawgrass, which includes missing the cut ten times and only two top-10 finishes, Glover remains optimistic about his chances.
"Just don't want to be done at 45, honestly," said Lucas Glover.
Meanwhile, Camilo Villegas, who was nearly at risk of losing his PGA Tour card two years ago, finds himself sharing the lead. His resurgence is partly attributed to his collaboration with Jose Luis Campra, a respected Argentine professional who also caddies and provides guidance for Villegas. Campra's expertise was on display as he set a Players Championship record with three eagles during the round.
Max Greyserman’s round was considerably steadier on the back nine, marked by seven pars, a birdie, and a bogey, rounding off his day with a score of 70. In contrast, Justin Thomas faced challenges as he hit four tee shots into the water and had to scramble with birdies on the last two holes to salvage a score of 78.
Viktor Hovland struggled through his round, registering three double bogeys and ending with a score of 80. Rory McIlroy showcased his resilience with four birdies from positions that were less than ideal, including an impressive recovery shot from the pine straw on the 18th hole.
"You're just hoping for a backswing and a gap, and I had both of those," expressed Rory McIlroy after his recovery shot.
McIlroy's tactical play proved advantageous as he punched a shot out of the trees to within seven feet of the hole.
"Just trying to chip-and-run a 5-iron up around the front of the green and make 4 and get out of there. It was a bonus to get it up on the green and hole the putt was a lovely way to finish," added McIlroy.
Jordan Spieth’s opening six holes were a rollercoaster of scores, featuring an eagle, a birdie, a par, a bogey, and a double bogey. Despite the erratic start, Spieth's ability to mix high-skill shots with challenging moments kept him in contention.
As the Players Championship progresses, TPC Sawgrass continues to test even the most seasoned golfers with its challenging layout and unpredictable conditions. The iconic 17th hole remains a focal point for both players and spectators alike, offering high drama and varying fortunes as competitors navigate its unique challenges.
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