The fairways of Quail Hollow were filled with anticipation, but on this surprising Thursday, it was Jhonattan Vegas who stole the show at the PGA Championship. With a stunning score of 7-under 64, Vegas claimed an unexpected lead, leaving top-ranked players in his wake.
It was an exciting afternoon as Vegas carved his path with precision, finishing his round with five birdies over the last six holes. His performance overshadowed what was expected to be a star-studded leaderboard. This marked his best round in any major competition, quite the feat for a player who hadn't seen a major in three years. Vegas's resurgence is a testament to his persistence, finding his form only the past year.
Flatland sunshine and treacherous mud balls were no match for the Venezuelan, who ended two strokes ahead of PGA rookie Ryan Gerard and Australia’s Cam Davis, both sitting comfortably with rounds of 66. Gerard, a local North Carolina product, thrilled the sparse home crowd with his spirited play but stumbled with bogeys on the final two holes.
The anticipated favorites, including Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele, failed to catch fire. McIlroy, a former Quail Hollow victor, stumbled to a challenging 3-over 74, his frustrations clear as he headed to the practice range. Meanwhile, Schauffele's day was marred by struggles with muddy lies which resulted in a 72.
Scottie Scheffler battled through the challenges to post a commendable 69, the best among the world's elite. His deft recovery shots, including a birdie and an eagle from off the green, highlighted his resilience.
Joining the leaderboard underdogs, Alex Smalley seized a last-minute opportunity and rolled in a 70-foot eagle en route to a solid 67. New Zealander Ryan Fox, fresh off a win at the Myrtle Beach Classic, matched that effort.
This first round defied expectations, with no top-10 ranked player finding a foothold. Instead, it was those like Vegas, Smalley, and Fox who made their mark.
Ryder Cup captains Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley both navigated the demanding course with poise. Donald, devoid of bogeys, and Bradley, nipping at the leaderboard’s heels, each brought their own masterclasses of steady play.
The opening day at Quail Hollow may not have been the superstar showcase many anticipated, but it underscored the unpredictable beauty of major golf. As the weekend looms, all eyes remain on those who seized the moment.
