LA QUINTA, Calif. — Scottie Scheffler, the reigning world No. 1 golfer, made a strong entrance into the 2026 PGA Tour at The American Express this past Thursday, captivating fans in the desert with his impressive play. Scheffler, a four-time PGA Tour Player of the Year and winner of six tournaments in 2025, including two majors, began his new season with a remarkable 9-under 63 at La Quinta Country Club.
This year’s tournament, boasting a total prize pool of $9.2 million, is known for its low scores, and the conditions on Thursday were ideal, with temperatures in the 70s, no wind, and a gentle cloud cover. As Scheffler returned for his sixth start in this event, having missed last year due to hand surgery, he quickly showcased his talent by birdying his first two holes and reaching 5 under through just six holes, finishing the front nine with a 30.
“It’s important to keep pace out here,” Scheffler remarked on the challenges of low-scoring events. He emphasized that while strong rounds are possible, falling behind can make it increasingly difficult to maintain competitiveness. On the back nine, he recorded three birdies alongside six pars, narrowly missing a 15-foot putt on the final hole that could have tied him for the lead.
Leading the first round, however, were Min Woo Lee and Pierceson Coody, who both shot notable 10-under 62s on the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West. Coody experienced a remarkable turn of events, going from 3 under through 10 holes to an impressive seven consecutive birdies commencing at the 11th hole—the best streak of his PGA Tour career. Lee had his own impressive performance, starting with five birdies on the back nine and continuing to shine with four additional birdies in a row.
Scheffler finds himself among three players tied at 63 as the tournament progresses, alongside Vince Whaley and 2021 American Express champion Si Woo Kim, both of whom also played the Nicklaus Course. As the competition heats up, golf enthusiasts are eager to see how the tournament unfolds in the days to come.