BOLTON, Mass. — Matthew WolffHe became a key figure in LIV Golfs history when he made the first hole in one. This ace helped him to a 7-under score of 63 in LIV Golf Invitational-Boston on Friday.
Wolff is tied for first place with Talor Gooch.
British Open champion Cameron SmithSix players recently joined the Saudi-funded league. One shot from behind a tree allowed him to break a wedge that allowed him par. He finished with a 45-foot eagle-putt for a 64.
Joaquin NiemannChile, who also signed with Greg NormanAfter he had completed his PGA Tour season at Tour Championship he entered the league. He also shot a 64.
Niemann stated, Im having fun out there — my very first day at work.
Smith and Niemann highlighted the newcomers who were included in the group. Anirban Lahiri (66), Harold Varner III (67), Marc Leishman(70) Cameron Tringale (71).
This is the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Smith stated earlier in the week that he believes this is the future golf. Its amazing out here. Its a little more relaxed on the range, with the music playing. I love that stuff.
He also mentioned a shorter schedule that will allow him more frequent return to Australia after a three-win season that saw him rise to No. 2.
Smith was solid at the start, finish and middle with a few errant drives. One of his drivers was pulled into the trees by Smith on the 16th hole. Smith was allowed to relieve himself because his feet were hurting from playing it left-handed, which was his only sensible play.
After the drop, he attempted to hood a gap-wedge (right-handed), but the club struck against the tree at the bottom of his shaft. He was able to save par when the ball rolled through the green.
He said, You know youre going to lose a club, but its probably still worth one or two shots.
His group was the only surprise. Smith began at No. 1. Dustin Johnson Shergo Al KurdiThe Jordanian born in England, who signed earlier this year with Golf Saudi.
Al Kurdi was a late replacement Henrik StensonHe was the winner in his LIV debut in New Jersey last month, but he had to withdraw due to vertigo. Al Kurdi opened the tournament with a 71.
Wolff scored his fifth ace of the round on the 178-yard second green. The ball made one-hop, and the ball disappeared into the cup to become the fourth LIV Golf Invitational series ace. To go with six birdies, the former Oklahoma State star had another par-5 12th-hole eagle. He was able to take the lead with those three birdies and three bogeys.
Lahiri and Louis OosthuizenJohnson was at number 67, while Johnson was at number 66. Johnson has been in the top 10 at the LIV events in the past, but he has yet not won.
Only 12 of the 48 players failed to score par or better at The International. It is located approximately 45 minutes west Boston. This includes Phil MickelsonHe was 74 years old.
Former U.S. Amateur champion James PiotHad a 77, but it was the rough day that belonged to Sihwan Kim. Kim also shot 87, and took four double bogeys.
This report was compiled by the Associated Press.