Perfect Day on the Greens

Adelaide, Australia – The wind blew gently, and the conditions were ideal – 22 degrees and just over 30 percent humidity. Jon Rahm seized the day, carding a 63 (-9) to take the first-round lead at the LIV Golf 2026 event in Adelaide. The Spaniard from Barrika had no errors and was near-flawless on the greens.

“I made a lot of putts. I don’t remember the last time I made that many. But there were a lot, and those that didn’t enter seemed like they were going to enter. It was a fantastic day on the greens. So that’s the most important lesson.”

– Jon Rahm

Rahm’s round included an eagle on the par-5 7th hole, where he drove the green and drained a 16-meter putt. He also birdied three other par-5s and three of the last five holes. His 63 tied Ben Campbell and Talor Gooch for the day’s low score, while Bryson DeChambeau carded a 67 (-3), two strokes behind.

Spanish Golf History Made

In a historic day for Spanish golf, two albatrosses were recorded. First, David Puig holed out his second shot on the par-5 10th hole, achieving his first career albatross. Later, Sergio García drained a 5-wood on the par-5 7th hole, his first ever in a tournament after 27 years as a professional.

Rahm Eyes World Ranking Points

After going winless since 2024, Rahm finds himself in contention to reclaim a spot in the world’s top 50 with a victory this weekend. Currently ranked 68th, a win could propel him back into the elite echelon of golf.

Other Spanish Challengers

• Josele Ballester combined five birdies and five bogeys to shoot par (72).
• Luis Masaveu had a strong performance, signing a 69, but bogeyed two of his last three holes.