Min Woo Lee and Pierceson Coody set the pace at The American Express with flawless 10-under 62s, while Scottie Scheffler lurks just one shot back. This early-season tournament is shaping up as a critical test for PGA Tour stars.
The American Express kicked off with a bang as Min Woo Lee and Pierceson Coody blazed through the Nicklaus Tournament Course with matching 10-under-par 62s. Their scorching starts set the tone for a tournament that promises high drama and early-season momentum.
The Hot Streaks: Coody’s Seven-Birdie Run and Lee’s Clutch Putting
Coody’s round was defined by a red-hot back nine, where he rattled off seven consecutive birdies. “I seem to get going hot whenever it kind of snowballs,” Coody said. “I’m not thinking anything different. It’s just the style of this week.” His ability to capitalize on momentum is a skill that could separate him from the pack as the tournament progresses.
Lee, meanwhile, showcased his clutch putting, making four birdies in a row down the stretch. The 27-year-old Australian, who won his first PGA Tour title at the 2025 Houston Open, credited a recent putting grip change for his success. “It’s good that you see results straight away,” he said. “I didn’t know how it would go on the greens, and it turned out well.”
Scheffler’s Steady Start: A Bogey-Free Round
Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top-ranked golfer, began his 2026 season with a bogey-free 9-under 63 at La Quinta Country Club. His six birdies through the first eight holes demonstrated why he remains the player to beat. “I was really sharp on the front nine,” Scheffler said. “I wasn’t as sharp as I hoped to be on the back nine, but I scrambled pretty well.”
Scheffler’s consistency—tying for first in greens in regulation (17 of 18)—highlights his ability to control every facet of his game. His presence near the top of the leaderboard is no surprise, but his ability to maintain this form will be critical as the tournament shifts to the more challenging Pete Dye Stadium Course.
The Tournament Format: A Unique Challenge
The American Express features a unique three-course rotation for the first three rounds, with players competing at the Pete Dye Stadium Course, the Nicklaus Tournament Course, and La Quinta Country Club. The cut comes after 54 holes, with the top 65 and ties advancing to Sunday’s final round at the Pete Dye Stadium Course.
This format tests versatility, as players must adapt to different course layouts and conditions. Jason Day, who shot the lowest score at the Stadium Course (9-under 63), emphasized the importance of iron play and short game. “Irons felt great, the short game felt good, and I putted really nice today,” Day said. “Just got to work on the driver a little bit.”
Key Storylines to Watch
- Will Zalatoris’ Return: After undergoing disk replacement surgery, Zalatoris shot a 7-under 65 in his first competitive round since the 2025 PGA Championship. His performance will be closely monitored as he looks to regain his top form.
- Defending Champion’s Struggles: Sepp Straka, the 2025 champion, opened with an even-par 72 at La Quinta. His ability to bounce back will be a key narrative.
- The International Contingent: With players like Robert MacIntyre (Scotland) and Si Woo Kim (South Korea) in the mix, the tournament showcases global talent.
Why This Tournament Matters
The American Express is more than just an early-season event—it’s a proving ground for players looking to build momentum. For rising stars like Coody, it’s a chance to establish themselves. For veterans like Scheffler and Day, it’s an opportunity to fine-tune their games ahead of major championships.
As the tournament progresses, the shift to the Pete Dye Stadium Course will test the leaders’ adaptability. With a packed leaderboard and multiple storylines unfolding, this weekend promises high-stakes golf.
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