2025 PGA Championship: Jhonattan Vegas Takes Day 1 Lead with Stellar Performance - (2026)

Updated: 25/02/2026

Day 1 of the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow Club brought about a mix of excitement, challenges, and standout performances. With Jhonattan Vegas taking the lead after a stellar round and notable players like Justin Thomas and Phil Mickelson facing tough moments, the tournament set the stage for what promises to be an intriguing competition.

Jhonattan Vegas Leads the Pack

Jhonattan Vegas emerged as the standout performer on Day 1, showcasing remarkable skill and consistency. His impressive score of 7-under 64, featuring nine birdies and two bogeys, propelled him to the top of the leaderboard. Vegas' stellar performance, including birdying his final hole to secure a two-shot lead, set the tone for an exciting tournament ahead.

Cam Davis Joins the Leaderboard at the Top

Cam Davis also made his mark on the opening day of the PGA Championship, delivering a solid round to join Vegas at the top of the leaderboard. With a score of 65, Davis demonstrated his prowess on the course, making seven birdies along the way and positioning himself as a strong contender moving forward.

Notable Performances and Challenges

While Vegas and Davis shone brightly, other players faced ups and downs during Day 1. Justin Thomas navigated through a rollercoaster round, showcasing both struggle and resilience as he battled his way to a 2-over 73. The experience was mirrored by golf icon Phil Mickelson, whose day ended with a challenging score of 79, highlighting the competitive nature of the tournament.

Tom Kim, Ryan Gerard, and a host of other players also made significant contributions to the leaderboard, setting the stage for an intense battle for the championship title.

The Impact of Mud Balls on Play

One of the noteworthy aspects of the tournament's opening day was the prevalence of mud balls, creating additional challenges for the players on the course. The absence of preferred lies meant that golfers had to adapt to the conditions and strategize effectively to overcome the obstacles posed by the unpredictable mud balls.

Exciting Moments and Missed Opportunities

Day 1 of the PGA Championship was filled with thrilling moments and missed opportunities as players navigated the demanding course at Quail Hollow Club. From stunning eagles and birdies to unexpected setbacks and challenges, the opening round provided a glimpse into the competitive spirit and talent on display among the field of elite golfers.

Looking Ahead

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the leaders like Jhonattan Vegas and Cam Davis, as well as players seeking to make a comeback from Day 1 setbacks. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the 2025 PGA Championship promises to deliver excitement, drama, and exceptional golfing performances as the players vie for the coveted title.

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