A record 5 golfers tied for lead after Round 1 at FedEx St. Jude Championship

Memphis, TN witnessed a record-breaking tie for the lead after Round 1 at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, with five golfers sharing the top spot. Michael Thorbjornsen, who had fallen ill before the start of the tournament, shot 5-under and joined Jordan Spieth, Kurt Kitayama, Michael Kim, and Jake Knapp at the top of the leaderboard.

The sweltering conditions at TPC Southwind in Memphis added to the challenge for the players, but Thorbjornsen found it advantageous. He believed that the heat made it easier for him to breathe, reducing the discomfort he experienced due to his illness.

Rory McIlroy, who had returned to the tournament, struggled after the first 15 holes and finished in second-to-last place, just ahead of Robert MacIntyre. Seven golfers, including Tommy Fleetwood, found themselves at 4-under and vying for a strong position in the tournament. Fleetwood, who had previously won at the Tour Championship, acknowledged the importance of preparation and remaining focused on his performance to secure his place in the postseason.

Spieth, among the standout performers of the day, expressed his relaxed state of mind while playing in Memphis, acknowledging the stress-free environment and the opportunity to secure a strong showing in the upcoming rounds.