Brooks Koepka excels at CJ Cup Byron Nelson
Brooks Koepka delivered a stunning opening round at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, firing a nine-under-par 62 at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, reports BritPanorama.
This performance marked the five-time major champion’s finest start to a tournament since his return to the PGA Tour earlier this year through the newly established Returning Member Programme.
Koepka’s bogey-free round included six birdies and an eagle on the par-five 12th hole, placing him fourth in strokes gained putting for the day. As the first high-profile player to leave LIV Golf and seek re-entry into the American circuit, his comeback has garnered attention.
The 36-year-old revealed that returning to the PGA Tour has afforded him access to support services largely absent during his four-and-a-half years with the Saudi-backed league. “Just to have so many options,” he commented regarding equipment choices, acknowledging that many facilities were not available to him while competing on LIV.
The American noted the advantages of quickly replacing damaged clubs or making shaft adjustments since his return, highlighting this flexibility as a significant benefit. However, Koepka’s return comes with certain restrictions. He is barred from participating in the lucrative $20 million Signature Events unless he earns his way in through performance, despite winning the 2023 PGA Championship while with LIV.
Rather than viewing these limitations as obstacles, he has embraced the challenge. “I’m enjoying the grind. I’m enjoying battling it out here,” he said. Reflecting on his renewed enthusiasm, he said, “Yeah, it’s just a newfound love, a newfound passion for the game.”
Koepka’s opening effort left him one stroke behind Taylor Moore, who carded a ten-under-par round to claim the overnight lead. Kensei Hirata sat second at nine under as of Friday morning.
The strong putting display followed a significant equipment change, with Koepka switching to a Scotty Cameron Fastback 1.5 — his fourth putter of the season — after last week’s PGA Championship at Aronimink. “Finally, I felt good with the putter,” he remarked.
As the tournament progresses, Koepka’s performance will undoubtedly be scrutinized, showcasing how swiftly fortunes can shift in the competitive world of golf.
