Hideki Matsuyama Fires 64 to Take Three-Shot Lead After First Round of The Players Championship

Hideki Matsuyama delivered a scintillating opening round at The Players Championship Thursday morning, carding a bogey-free 64 to establish a commanding three-shot lead over the field at TPC Sawgrass. The Japanese star's flawless round included six birdies and an eagle on the par-5 11th hole, showcasing the precise iron play and confident putting that has made him one of the world's most consistent performers.

Matsuyama's round was highlighted by his approach shot on the 11th hole, where his 7-iron from 178 yards landed softly and rolled to within six feet of the pin for an easy eagle putt. The 34-year-old then followed up with birdies on 12 and 14 to separate himself from a quality field that includes defending champion Jon Rahm and rising star Viktor Hovland.

The former Masters champion was particularly impressive on TPC Sawgrass' notoriously difficult back nine, where he played the final nine holes in 5-under par without a single bogey. His approach play was clinical throughout the round, hitting 16 of 18 greens in regulation while averaging just 12 feet from the pin on his approach shots.

"I felt really comfortable out there today," Matsuyama said through his translator after signing his scorecard. "The greens were rolling perfectly, and I was able to control my distances really well with my irons. The course is in fantastic condition, and when you're hitting it close to the pins like I was today, you can make a lot of putts. It's only the first round, but this gives me confidence heading into the rest of the week."

Trailing Matsuyama at 5-under are Cameron Smith, Collin Morikawa, and surprise contender Tom Kim, who all posted solid opening rounds on a day when scoring conditions were ideal at the iconic Florida venue. The trio will need to apply pressure early in Friday's second round if they hope to stay within striking distance of the Japanese veteran.

Defending champion Jon Rahm struggled to find his rhythm in the opening round, posting a disappointing 2-over 74 that leaves him eight shots behind Matsuyama heading into Friday. The Spanish star had three bogeys and a double-bogey on the par-4 4th hole, where his approach shot found the water hazard. With three rounds remaining, Matsuyama will look to build on his excellent start and claim his second PGA Tour victory of the 2026 season.