Written By French golfer Antoine Rozner made an early statement at the Korea Championship with a stunning 63 in the first round, putting him atop the leaderboard and setting a new course record.
Rozner started his round with three birdies in the first four holes, setting the tone for what would be a remarkable display of precision and control. He continued to make birdies throughout the day, with a bogey on the par-3 17th hole the only blemish on his scorecard.
The 63 was a personal best for Rozner, who has two European Tour victories to his name, and it was also the lowest round ever recorded at Woo Jeong Hills Country Club, the host course for the Korea Championship.
Speaking after his round, Rozner was understandably thrilled with his performance.
“I’m very happy. I had a great start, made three birdies in the first four holes, and then kept it going,” he said. “The course was in great condition, and I just tried to keep the ball in play and give myself chances. It’s always nice to shoot a low round, and it’s even better to do it in a tournament.”
Rozner’s opening round gave him a two-shot lead over the chasing pack, which includes the likes of Justin Harding, David Horsey, and Mikumu Horikawa.
The Korea Championship is part of the European Tour’s three-tournament swing through Asia, and features a strong field of players including former major champions and Ryder Cup veterans.
Rozner’s brilliant start to the tournament will no doubt put him on the radar of many golf fans and pundits, and he will be looking to build on his lead in the coming days.
The 27-year-old from Paris has been a rising star on the European Tour in recent years, and his performances this season have been particularly impressive. He won the Golf in Dubai Championship in December 2020, and followed that up with a victory at the Gran Canaria Lopesan Open in April of this year.
Rozner’s success can be attributed to his strong all-around game, with his accurate iron play and solid putting providing the foundation for his success on the course.
While there is still a long way to go in the Korea Championship, Rozner’s opening round performance has certainly put him in a strong position, and he will be hoping to add another trophy to his growing collection.
