Round 1 of LIV Golf Indianapolis delivered a thrilling day of competition, highlighted by Sebastian Munoz's record-setting performance. Munoz fired a stunning 12-under 59 at The Club at Chatham Hills, propelling him to the top of the leaderboard. His round included an incredible streak of eight consecutive birdies and thirteen birdies in a 14-hole stretch.
Dustin Johnson trails Munoz, sitting in solo second after carding a 9-under 62. A group of players are tied for third place at 7-under 64, including Joaquin Niemann, Thomas Pieters, and Patrick Reed.
The event also carries significant implications for the season-long Individual Championship. Joaquin Niemann and Jon Rahm, who have been battling for the top spot, continued their competition. Niemann shot a 64 and is tied for third, while Rahm is tied for 12th after shooting 67. Current projections suggest Niemann is in a favorable position to win the Individual Championship.
Bryson DeChambeau, who entered the week in the final bonus-paying position for third place, remains there after shooting a 67. Patrick Reed had briefly passed him during the day, but a slip-up resulted in Reed returning to a tie for third.
The tournament also affects players' positions in the "Lock Zone" and "Drop Zone," which determine guaranteed playing privileges for next season and potential relegation. Dustin Johnson and Cameron Tringale have moved into the projected top 24, while Charl Schwartzel and Charles Howell III have fallen below. Andy Ogletree moved out of the projected Drop Zone, while Lee Westwood has fallen into it. Ogletree acknowledged the risk and emphasized the need to post a good score.
Other notable players competing include Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson. Round 2 is set to begin on Saturday, August 16th, with tee times at 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, followed by Round 3 on Sunday, August 17th, at 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM.