The Genesis Invitational, taking place this week, marks the sixth tournament of the PGA Tour’s 2026 season and the concluding segment of the West Coast Swing. The tournament’s opening round faced disruptions due to heavy rain, resulting in a three-hour delay as water pooled on the greens. Although play resumed around 4 p.m. ET, it was suspended again at 8:41 p.m. ET as darkness set in. Consequently, 30 players will return to finish their first rounds on Friday morning.
As the leaders were determined before the evening suspension, Aaron Rai stood out by finishing at 6-under-par after rolling in a birdie putt on the par-3 16th hole. This success places him in pursuit of his second career win on the PGA Tour, after his inaugural victory at the 2024 Wyndham Championship. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy and Jacob Bridgeman both recorded impressive scores of 5-under 66, tying for the clubhouse lead shortly before play was suspended. Bridgeman had notable momentum, which included an eagle on the first hole and a series of birdies on the back nine.
Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked as the world’s number one golfer, struggled through the first round, finishing the front nine at 4 over. His performance puts him near the bottom of the leaderboard, tied for 69th place, a surprising turn for a player of his caliber.
Despite the challenges posed by the weather, some players thrived. Akshay Bhatia began with a strong performance, birdieing three of his first four holes, while Adam Scott capitalized on the conditions to card a birdie after his ball embedded close to the hole due to the rain-soaked greens.
As the weather improved, the sun began to shine on Riviera Country Club, allowing action to resume after the delay. With 72 players in the field and many top-ranked players participating, the excitement continues to build as the event progresses. This year’s Genesis Invitational not only offers a significant total purse of $20 million but also provides a platform for emerging talents to make their mark, as evidenced by Bridgeman’s promising performances this season.
The tournament, hosted at the renowned Riviera Country Club—acknowledged as one of the top golf courses in the United States—promises thrilling golf as the first round concludes and the competitors gear up for exciting challenges ahead. Fans and participants alike remain hopeful for an exhilarating conclusion to the Genesis Invitational.