Tom Hoge made an impressive return to the PGA Tour season opener at The Sentry after taking time off for family life, including the recent birth of his child. Despite a relaxed approach to practice, Hoge delivered a stellar 9-under-par 64 at The Plantation Course in Kapalua, Hawaii, claiming the first-round lead and with eyes already on the big prize. His round included ten birdies and just one bogey, with a strong start highlighted by sinking a 15-20 foot putt on the first hole.
Tom Hoge leads @TheSentry in his first round as a new dad ❤️
Will Zalatoris and Hideki Matsuyama both shot 8-under, with Matsuyama finishing strong thanks to birdies on the 14th and 16th holes, and an eagle on the 15th. Collin Morikawa, Cameron Young, and Corey Conners followed closely at 7-under, with Morikawa impressing with four consecutive birdies on the back nine.
Other notable performances included Tony Finau, Adam Hadwin, and Thomas Detry, who ended the day at 6-under, while defending champion Chris Kirk struggled, shooting 74 to land tied for 48th.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler was absent due to recent hand surgery, leaving room for other contenders to shine in a field where 40 players finished under par. With ideal conditions expected to persist, players like Morikawa anticipate more low scores as the tournament continues.
The action in Hawaii runs from Thursday, January 2 and concludes on Sunday, January 5.
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