Chris Gotterup Fires 63, Shares Lead at Waste management Phoenix Open
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Chris Gotterup carded a stunning 9-under 63 in the first round of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, sharing the lead with Matt Fitzpatrick and Sam Stevens at TPC Scottsdale on Thursday.
Gotterup’s Hot Start
Gotterup, seeking his first PGA Tour victory, jump-started his round with an eagle on the par-5 13th hole, sinking a 27-foot putt. He continued his momentum with birdies on the 16th and 18th holes, making the turn in 6-under 30. He added further birdies on the 3rd and 7th holes, matching the 63 he recorded in Hawaii earlier this season. “I feel like I’m doing things well and thinking through things well, and I think that’s the most vital thing,” Gotterup said. “I wouldn’t say today I drove it my best or did anything, (but) I putted grate.”
Fitzpatrick and Stevens challenge
England’s Matt Fitzpatrick matched the back-nine record with a 29, shooting a 65.He began with birdies on the 10th and 11th, then reeled off five straight birdies starting on the 13th. Stevens was among a group of four players at 66, and a total of 26 players shot 68 or better before play was suspended due to darkness.
Struggles for Top Players
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler had a challenging day, carding a 2-over 73 after flubbing two chip shots. This performance puts his streak of 65 consecutive cuts made in jeopardy. Brooks Koepka also faced challenges, shooting a 75 in his second tournament as returning to the PGA Tour, managing only one birdie.
Looking Ahead
The Waste Management Phoenix Open continues on Friday, with players eager to build on strong starts and others looking to climb the leaderboard. The tournament, known for its lively atmosphere and stadium 16th hole, promises a competitive weekend of golf. Official tournament data can be found on the PGA tour website.
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