Ireland’s Seamus Power is just one stroke off the lead after an exciting opening round at the PGA Tour’s Genesis Invitational. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler also demonstrated strong play as the tournament kicked off.
Power bounced back from an early bogey to achieve four birdies, finishing the day with a three-under 69 at Torrey Pines, placing him behind first-round leader Denny McCarthy.
McCarthy stole the spotlight with a birdie-eagle finish, carding an impressive 68. He started strong with a 25-foot birdie at the 17th before executing a remarkable three-wood into the par-five last hole to secure an eagle.
Patrick Rodgers is tied with Power for second place, while Scheffler remains within striking distance, sitting two shots off the lead after a two-under 70, despite missing a short birdie opportunity on the final hole.
Rory McIlroy, fresh off a victory at Pebble Beach, recorded a steady even-par round of 72, featuring two birdies and two bogeys. A large group, including Collin Morikawa, Shane Lowry, and Justin Thomas, finished with scores of 73.
Scheffler started strong with four birdies in seven holes but struggled on the par fives, finishing his round at two over par for a total of 70.
Harris English, who won at Torrey Pines three weeks ago, opened with a disappointing 75, while Rasmus Hojgaard and Adam Hadwin struggled, carding 82 and 83, respectively.
As the Genesis Invitational progresses, anticipation builds around the question: Who will emerge victorious?
