Defending champion Woods makes hot start

AUGUSTA, November 13

Defending champion Tiger Woods tied his best-ever opening round at the Masters and was three shots behind the leaders. Five-time Masters champion Woods, who had struggled for form in 2020, suddenly looked revived and in command on his familiar Augusta National stomping ground as he carded a 4-under 68. “It was good all around,” Woods said after his first bogey-free start in 23 Masters appearances. “I drove it well, hit my irons well and putted well.”

Johnson grabs share of lead

World No. 1 Dustin Johnson was a model of precision as he moved into a three-way share of the lead with England’s Paul Casey and South African Dylan Frittelli at 7-under 65 when the delayed first round was completed today. Forty-four players were yet to finish their opening round yesterday when play was suspended due to darkness. World No. 3 Justin Thomas (66) shot his lowest round at Augusta National and was one shot back along with Im Sung-jae. — Reuters