Ludvig Åberg grabbed the early lead at the RBC Heritage after shooting a bogey-free 8-under 63 at Harbour Town Golf Links in South Carolina.
Åberg’s round left him one stroke clear of Ryder Cup team-mate Viktor Hovland and American Harris English in a strong Signature Event field. England’s Matt Fitzpatrick was part of a six-player group two shots back at 6 under.
Åberg said his iron play and approaches were the keys to the day, noting he hit the ball where he wanted and found himself on the correct sides of flags while carding eight birdies.
Robert MacIntyre, who endured a difficult week at Augusta — missing the cut after an opening 80 and attracting attention for an obscene gesture captured during his second round — responded with a composed 5-under round on Thursday. That effort left him three shots behind Åberg and in contention early in the tournament.
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler recovered from an early error that sent his first shot out of bounds to post a 3-under round as he looks to follow up his runner-up finish at the Masters. Ireland’s Shane Lowry signed for 1 under as he seeks to bounce back from a disappointing final round at Augusta.
England’s Tommy Fleetwood had a tough start, sitting at 5 over, while Justin Thomas posted a 76.
Reflecting on his reactions last week, MacIntyre told Sky Sports Golf that he was focused on moving on, managing his emotions and trusting his preparation. He said he feels comfortable with this course and his game, that he is driving the ball well and able to be aggressive off the tee, and that he works with someone at home to help control his emotions and put setbacks behind him.
Coverage of the RBC Heritage continues daily on Sky Sports Golf throughout the tournament.