Detroit Golf Club played host to a thrilling first round of the Rocket Mortgage Classic, where Akshay Bhatia emerged as the early leader with a stellar 8-under 64. Bhatia's final stretch, featuring two birdies and an eagle, solidified his position at the top in a competitive field where 34 players are within four strokes of the lead.
Bhatia, ranked 29th in the world, displayed his recent form, coming off strong finishes at the Memorial, U.S. Open, and Travelers Championship. His late charge on Thursday saw him birdie the par-4 16th, chip in for eagle on the par-5 17th, and deliver a precision shot from the rough on the 18th.
Close on Bhatia’s heels are Taylor Montgomery and Michael Kim at 7-under. Montgomery, returning from injury, delivered a bogey-free round, surprising himself with a first-nine 30. Defending champion Rickie Fowler and Will Zalatoris are among a group tied at 6-under, adding to the congestion atop the leaderboard.
Fowler, who broke a long winless streak at last year’s Rocket, finished strong with four birdies in his last five holes. Zalatoris, playing alongside Fowler, also entertained the crowds with a notable birdie putt on the 18th.
Cameron Young, ranked 23rd in the world, shot a bogey-free 67, keeping him in the mix. Young, who nearly won here in 2022, remains winless but is optimistic after a strong showing at the Travelers Championship.
Aaron Rai, known for his unique two-glove style, joined the 6-under club with a flawless round. The Englishman is seeking his first PGA Tour win and praised his driving accuracy as a key factor in his performance.
The field also includes notable names like 2019 winner Nate Lashley, who made an ace at the par-3 11th, and rising star Michael Thorbjornsen, who shot a 4-under 68. Tom Kim, the highest-ranked player in the field, struggled with a 1-over 73, facing a tough challenge to make the cut.
The competition remains fierce as players navigate the challenging yet rewarding Detroit Golf Club. With a tightly packed leaderboard, the Rocket Mortgage Classic promises exciting rounds ahead, reflecting the unpredictability and competitiveness that define the PGA Tour.
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