Justin Rose produced a superb opening round to lead the Farmers Insurance Open, while Brooks Koepka marked his return to the PGA Tour after a year away.
Rose fires stunning opening round
The 45-year-old Englishman shot a 10-under-par 62, carding 10 birdies to take a one-shot lead over American Justin Lower at Torrey Pines.
“I feel like I managed my game really, really well today. I felt like I read the greens phenomenally,” Rose said. “I putted really, really well.”
Rose had missed the cut at last week’s American Express tournament but bounced back in style on the North Course.
Lower impresses amid personal pressure
World number 173 Justin Lower sits second at nine under despite entering the event following a late withdrawal.
The 36-year-old, who recorded two eagles, admitted his focus was divided. “My mind’s not really here because my wife is 34 weeks pregnant with twins,” he said.
“I’m just trying to get home on Monday to help out as much as I can.”
Koepka welcomed back by fans
Five-time major champion Brooks Koepka returned to the PGA Tour with a first-round 73 on the tougher South Course.
Although he made his first birdie on the final hole, the American was encouraged by the crowd’s response. “The fans were awesome. It was very cool to hear ‘welcome back’,” Koepka said.
“It was pretty much every hole, which is great.”
Return after LIV Golf exit
Koepka’s comeback follows his departure from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series after agreeing to a release from his contract at the end of 2025.
The PGA Tour introduced a Returning Members Programme to reintegrate the former world number one into competition.
Reflecting on his journey, Koepka added: “I think I’ve fallen back in love with the game. Watching my son play makes me want him to see me enjoy this and play well.”
He will look to build momentum over the remaining rounds as the tournament continues at Torrey Pines.
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