Round 1 Highlights at LIV Golf Dallas

At the prestigious Maridoe Golf Club in Carrollton, Texas, Patrick Reed and Harold Varner III showcased their skills, each carding a 5-under 67 to lead after the first round of LIV Golf Dallas. Reed, known for his aggressive play, eagled the challenging 655-yard, par-5 second hole, complemented by four birdies and a single bogey. Varner, who shares the leaderboard with Reed, managed six birdies but finished with a bogey on the last hole.

Unexpected Turn: Koepka Withdraws

In a surprising twist, Brooks Koepka had to withdraw mid-round due to illness. His frustration was evident when he smashed a tee marker with his driver on the ninth hole, marking a dramatic exit from the tournament.

Chasing the Leaders

Jon Rahm is just one stroke behind the leaders, keeping the competition tight. Other notable players like Abraham Ancer and Dustin Johnson are also in the mix, with Ancer shooting a 69 and Johnson posting a 70. The field remains open as players like Graeme McDowell, Anirban Lahiri, Richard Bland, and David Puig also scored 70.

Local Favorite Struggles

Bryson DeChambeau, a local favorite and SMU alumnus, opened with a 72, leaving him with work to do in the upcoming rounds. Meanwhile, Joaquín Niemann, the points leader fresh off a victory at LIV Golf Virginia, struggled with a 78, including a disastrous 10 on the par-5 seventh hole.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Reed and Varner to see if they can maintain their lead or if another contender will rise to the challenge in this thrilling LIV Golf event.