Henley Dominates Round 1 of Tour Championship with Flawless 61 at East Lake
Atlanta, Georgia – Russell Henley has stormed to an early lead at the 2025 Tour Championship, delivering a masterful 9-under 61 in the opening round at East Lake Golf Club. His exceptional performance puts him two strokes clear of world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, setting a thrilling tone for the FedExCup Playoffs finale.
Henley's Masterclass: A Birdie Barrage at East Lake
The Georgia native showcased a putting clinic on Thursday, converting a remarkable seven birdies and an eagle without dropping a single shot. Henley's round was highlighted by one-putting six of his last seven holes, including three crucial birdie putts from over 40 feet. This "birdie barrage" culminated in three consecutive birdies to close out his impressive 61, leaving competitors in his wake. Playing on a softened East Lake course due to recent rain, Henley expertly navigated the conditions, which allowed for "lift, clean and place" rules in the short grass.
Scheffler and McIlroy Lead the Chase
Hot on Henley's heels is the formidable Scottie Scheffler, who also delivered a blemish-free round of 7-under 63. Scheffler, the defending Tour Championship winner and a player enjoying an extraordinary 2025 PGA Tour season, remains a significant threat. Rory McIlroy, a three-time FedExCup champion, is also firmly in contention after a 4-under 66, despite a moment of drama on the 18th where his bunker shot rebounded off a grandstand leading to a fortunate birdie. Other top contenders like Patrick Cantlay, Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas, Robert MacIntyre, and Tommy Fleetwood are also in the mix, looking to make their move as the tournament progresses.
The Stakes Are High: FedExCup Glory Awaits
The Tour Championship is the culmination of the season-long FedExCup Playoffs, where the top 30 players battle for one of golf's most prestigious titles and a share of the staggering $40 million bonus pool, with the champion taking home $10 million.
This year's event has seen a significant format change, with all 30 players starting at even par, a departure from the staggered-stroke format used in previous years. This adjustment promises a more traditional stroke-play shootout, intensifying the "race for the FedExCup" and making every shot count from the very first tee.
As the "season finale" unfolds at East Lake, golf enthusiasts worldwide are glued to the "leaderboard," anticipating a thrilling weekend of "elite golf performance" that will crown the 2025 FedExCup champion.