Golf-U.S. Masters Day One

AUGUSTA, Georgia, April 6 (Reuters) - The 81st U.S. Masters started on Thursday. Following are the highlights on the opening day at the first major championship of the year.

AMERICAN PIERCY LEADS ON TWO UNDER PAR

American Scott Piercy was the early leader on two under par after nine holes. Former Masters champion Trevor Immelman of South Africa slumped to four over par on the front nine holes in windy conditions at Augusta.

NICKLAUS, PLAYER HIT CEREMONIAL OPENING SHOTS

Six-times Masters champion Jack Nicklaus and three-times winner Gary Player struck the ceremonial opening tee shots to mark the start of the 81st Masters tournament.

SUMMERHAYS, HENLEY FIRST GROUP OUT

Americans Daniel Summerhays and Russell Henley were the first players out on the course, teeing off at 0800 local time.

WORLD NUMBER ONE JOHNSON DOUBTFUL AFTER SUFFERING FREAK FALL

World number one Dustin Johnson's participation in the tournament is in doubt after he suffered a freak fall on Wednesday and sustained a back injury.

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Masters under way, Augusta waits on Johnson

Arnie's Army salutes Palmer one last time

World number one Johnson doubtful after fall

Par 3 contest called off for first time

Stenson eyes Masters improvement (Compiled by Ed Osmond; Editing by Frank Pingue)