The Webb Simpson Career Revival Tour is alive and well.
So much so that Webb had the “59 Watch” posted during Thursday’s first round at The Mililtary Tribute at The Greenbrier.
Simpson, who won for the first time in four years when he captured The Players earlier this season, lit it up during the first round, finished with a “disappointing” two pars for a nine-under 61. He made a big run starting with birdie at the ninth, 10th and 11th holes then a chip-in from just off the green was good for eagle at the par five 12th. Two more birdies at 14 and 16 got him to nine-under and he was in need of a birdie-birdie finish for 59. Two pars gave him 61.
“It was kind of a bummer to end the round that way after having a chance (at 59),” Simpson said, “but overall a great, solid day. “I’ve worked on a couple things my last week off and seeing some good results from the work.”
It’s the continuation of Simpson’s comeback and he’s playing with confidence.
“I’m feeling really good and confident,” he said. “Putts are going in, so I’m feeling really good about my game.”
As good as he played, he was just a shot in front of Whee Kim, who played a couple of groups in front of Simpson in the afternoon wave. Kim put up an amazing 10 birdies but two bogeys prevented a 60 by the South Korean.
Joaquin Niemann played early and continued his run toward the playoffs with a seven-under par 63.
Phil Mickelson’s 66 made him low property owner, edging Greenbrier neighbor Bubba Watson who opened with 68.
