Eric Cole (-7) set the pace at TPC River Highlands with a superb opening round, taking the outright lead after carding a flawless 63. His precision iron play and confident putting gave him a one-shot advantage over a stacked group of contenders.

Just behind at -6, Nicolás Echavarría, Ben Griffin, Matt Fitzpatrick, Kristoffer Reitan, Bud Cauley, and Scottie Scheffler all share second place. Each produced sharp rounds, with Scheffler and Fitzpatrick showcasing major-championship composure to stay firmly in the hunt.

At -5, Patrick Cantlay, Brandt Snedeker, Aaron Rai, Viktor Hovland, Corey Conners, and Justin Rose form a deep chasing pack. Their consistency highlights the depth of talent in the field, with Cantlay and Hovland particularly looking dangerous heading into Round 2.