Pebble Beach Leaderboard: Hisatsune Sets the Pace at AT&T Pro-Am

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (AP) — The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is underway, and Ryo Hisatsune has seized the early lead with a remarkable 8-under 62 at Pebble Beach. Hisatsune’s round was highlighted by a string of three consecutive birdies early on, and a closing stretch of three more, showcasing his impressive form.

Chris Gotterup is hot on his heels, extending an incredible streak of nine straight birdies over two rounds. He carded an 8-under 64, settling just two shots behind Hisatsune. The day saw generally gorgeous weather and low scores, with players taking advantage of the favourable conditions.

Scheffler Faces Challenges

Scottie Scheffler, however, had a tougher day on the course. He needed a birdie on the par-5 18th at Pebble Beach just to avoid being among the 12 players who failed to break par. “I feel like typically I’m good at scoring, and today I felt like I didn’t score at all,” Scheffler admitted. “Anything that kind of went wrong seemed to be going that direction. I actually feel like I’m playing pretty well. Just one of those days.”

Canadian Contingent in the Mix

Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., leads the Canadian charge with a solid 65, one stroke ahead of Mackenzie Hughes of Dundas, Ont. Corey Conners of Listowel, Ont., finished with a 70, while Taylor Pendrith of Richmond Hill, Ont. carded a 71.

Defending Champion Stumbles

Defending champion Rory McIlroy had a challenging start to his year, struggling with a pair of three-putt double bogeys on the par 5s at Spyglass Hill, resulting in a 68.

Gotterup’s Birdie Run

Gotterup, fresh off victories this year, continued his impressive form, making three straight birdies to finish his round. His ability to maintain momentum, even transitioning from desert warmth to the California coastal chill, is remarkable. He strung together six birdies in the first six holes, stating, “I was kind of just coasting along… You don’t really realize it in the moment, and then when you look up you’re like, ‘Wow, I’m 6 under through six.’ That’s nice.”

Bradley’s Strong Performance at Spyglass

Keegan Bradley delivered a standout performance at Spyglass Hill, navigating the more challenging course with a clean card and a score of 64. He achieved a birdie-eagle-birdie burst on the 8th hole, solidifying his position on the Pebble Beach leaderboard.

Burns Makes a Late Charge

Sam Burns also made a significant move, particularly on the back nine, with five birdies in a six-hole stretch. His exceptional putting, including a 45-foot putt on the 10th and a 30-foot putt on the 17th, contributed to his strong showing.

The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am promises to be an exciting tournament, with a tight leaderboard and plenty of skilled golfers vying for the title. Stay tuned for further updates as the competition unfolds.

Source: AP News