At the Rocket Classic on Thursday, Aldrich Potgieter of South Africa and Kevin Roy each carded 10-under-par 62 rounds, establishing a new single-round scoring record at Detroit Golf Club and sharing the first-round lead. Their rounds put them ahead in the competition, sparking excitement early in the tournament.
Close Contenders and Standout Performances in Early Rounds
Just one shot behind Potgieter and Roy are Mark Hubbard, Max Greyserman, and Australia’s Min Woo Lee, who each posted rounds of 9-under 63. Andrew Putnam followed closely with an 8-under 64. Roy’s strong finish included an eagle and birdie on the back nine for a 30, while Potgieter, who began his round on the back nine, impressed with a 7-under 29 featuring five birdies and an eagle.
Emerging Talents and Experienced Players Chase First PGA Tour Wins
Potgieter, aged 20, and Roy, 35, are both seeking their inaugural victories on the PGA Tour despite being at different points in their careers. Meanwhile, Min Woo Lee showcased momentum with three consecutive birdies to close his round, building on a family success story as his sister, Minjee Lee, recently won her third LPGA major at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship.
Notable Names Among the Leaders and Challengers
Veteran Zach Johnson, who captained the U.S. Ryder Cup team in 2023, held a 7-under 65 alongside others, while Wyndham Clark and Patrick Cantlay stood at 6-under 66. Keegan Bradley, set to captain the upcoming Ryder Cup and fresh off a high-profile win at the Travelers Championship, shot a 4-under 68.
Defending Champions Face Early Pressures
Defending Rocket Classic champion Cam Davis opened with a 2-over 74, putting him at risk of missing the tournament cut. Similarly, 2023 winner Rickie Fowler started his campaign with a 1-under 71, tied for 108th place after the first round.
The Path Forward in the Rocket Classic Tournament
With Aldrich Potgieter Rocket Classic record now established at 62 alongside Kevin Roy, the tournament has begun with a promising display of talent and determination. The competition remains tight as players aim to secure their first victories or defend their titles, setting up an exciting progression in the days ahead at Detroit Golf Club.