All the eyeballs were on Rory McIlroy and Jordan Spieth on Thursday in Abu Dhabi.
Bryson DeChambeau didn’t mind at all.
The U.S. Amateur champion who looks more professional than most, quietly took care of business in the first round of the HSBC championship with a dazzling 64.
The former SMU player’s eight-under par round put him atop a field that was full of stars.
“I’m excited to be here,” said DeChambeau, who received a sponsor’s exemption into the field. “Shooting 64 is pretty cool.”
Henrik Stenson was a shot behind him and McIlroy had a great start to his season with a 66 that showed he’s ready for his 2016 season.
Jordan Spieth put himself in contention although he missed three putts inside 10 feet. Spieth still managed to shoot 68.
“I didn’t drive the ball well, which is really the key out here. So to start four-under with the way I felt with my driver is spectacular,” Spieth observed after his round.
Spieth couldn’t help but compliment McIlroy. “It was impressive today and minus one or two short putts, which is mainly just rust, it felt like he was on his “A” game.”
McIlroy was simply delighted with his start, tying his lowest round to start a season. “I don’t know it it’s about making a statement but I just want to play well.”
