Min Woo Lee and Jason Day led a strong Australian performance on the opening day of the PGA Tour’s The American Express event in La Quinta, California. Lee carded a remarkable 10-under-par 62, sharing the lead with American Pierceson Coody at the prestigious $US9.2 million event, which features a unique three-course format.
Lee’s impressive round took place on the Nicklaus Tournament Course, but it was Jason Day who stole the spotlight with a nine-under 63 on the challenging Pete Dye Stadium Course. This performance positions Day well as he seeks to continue his comeback after a series of injuries in 2025.
Day’s Remarkable Comeback
Jason Day, ranked 62nd in the world, expressed optimism about his current form and health. “I’m in a good position. I’ve just got to capitalize on where I am right now,” Day commented after his round. “It’s a tough golf course out there, so I’m very pleased with shooting nine under.”
“Overall, I feel pretty good. My health feels great and very positive about the year,” said Day, highlighting his return to form.
Day’s performance is particularly noteworthy given his recent struggles with injuries. His ability to compete at such a high level on one of the tour’s tougher courses underscores his determination and skill.
Min Woo Lee’s Flawless Start
Australian world No.45 Min Woo Lee also had a flawless start, and he will face the Stadium Course in the second round on Friday. Lee, who won last year’s Houston Open, is aiming for his second career PGA title.
“In golf, you can very easily get ahead of yourself. There are still three more days, and you’ve still got to get yourself in contention,” Lee remarked. “I changed my grip only a week and a half ago, and it’s good to see results straight away.”
Lee emphasized the importance of staying focused: “You’ve just got to go out there each day and just do your best.”
Strong Field and Competitive Play
World No.1 Scottie Scheffler also made a strong start to 2026, shooting a nine-under-par 63 to join a large group one shot off the lead. Scheffler’s round included a spectacular hole-out from off the green at the 17th for his ninth birdie of the day.
Scheffler, who is coming off a 2025 season with two major titles, showed resilience despite hitting only five of 14 fairways. “I got off to a good start today,” he said. “I was really sharp on the front nine, made some nice putts, hit some good iron shots.”
Meanwhile, Coody’s round featured an impressive stretch of seven consecutive birdies from the 11th through the 17th. “I was making good putts and got things going on the back nine,” Coody noted.
Australian Contingent Impresses
Other Australian players also performed well, with Adam Scott shooting a 65 on the Nicklaus Tournament Course and Karl Villips posting a five-under 67 at La Quinta Country Club.
The Australian contingent’s strong showing in the opening round highlights their competitive edge in this early stage of the PGA season, which began with the Sony Open in Hawaii last week.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Lee and Day to see if they can maintain their momentum and contend for the title. The unique three-course format of The American Express provides both challenges and opportunities for these talented golfers.
The tournament continues over the next few days, with players rotating across the three courses in La Quinta, each offering its own set of challenges. As the competition intensifies, the Australian golfers’ performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
