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2w ago

McNealy Sets Early Pace at Players as Morikawa Withdraws, McIlroy's Status Uncertain

First-round play at TPC Sawgrass paused briefly for storms as one of the PGA Tour’s strongest fields chased a $25 million purse.

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Collin Morikawa of the United States prepares for a shot with his caddie, Mark Urbanek, on the tenth hole during the first round of THE PLAYERS Championship 2026 at THE PLAYERS Stadium course at TPC Sawgrass on March 12, 2026 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.
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Overview

  • Maverick McNealy carded a 5-under 67 to hold the early lead after a blustery, rain-hit opening round at TPC Sawgrass.
  • Collin Morikawa withdrew with a back injury after one hole, reducing the field to 122 players following Ryan Fox’s illness withdrawal and David Ford’s late addition.
  • Defending champion Rory McIlroy labeled himself a game-time decision after recent back spasms and remained scheduled for a 1:42 p.m. ET tee time with Xander Schauffele and Hideki Matsuyama.
  • World No. 1 and pre-tournament favorite Scottie Scheffler opened with an even-par 72 after entering the week shortest on the betting boards.
  • A brief thunderstorm suspension pushed afternoon tee times by 30 minutes, with broadcast coverage on Golf Channel and ESPN+ and weekend windows on NBC and Peacock; Sky Sports carries the event in the UK.