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sports8h ago
Sungjae Im takes one-shot lead into weekend at Valspar Championship
Espn.com and 1 more
- Sungjae Im opened with a 7-under 64 to seize the Valspar lead, underscoring a strong comeback after missing two straight cuts.
- Brandt Snedeker, tied for second and playing on a sponsor exemption, opened the back nine with three straight birdies in a bogey-free 65.
- Davis Thompson sits at 66 while Billy Horschel is at 67 as a cluster forms behind the leaders in round one.
- Jordan Spieth entered the day strong but finished in the mix after a late stretch, including a costly 3-putt in the Snake Pit.
- Defending champion Viktor Hovland steadied early, shooting 70 to stay in contention as the field compresses.
- Brooks Koepka returned to Innisbrook with a 71, signaling a steady start in his first round back at the venue.
- Copperhead's firm, fast conditions continue to shape scoring opportunities for leaders on the first day.
- Im and Snedeker led a tight start as multiple players chase the lead ahead of Masters qualification implications.
- Two eagles from Im helped offset late bogeys, highlighting his ability to generate momentum on par-5s.
- The weekend at Valspar looks likely to remain tight, with a mix of veterans and rising players contending for momentum and Masters hopes.
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