Molinari two ahead at Wentworth
Francesco Molinari earned a two-stroke lead after the opening round of the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth on Thursday.
The Italian carded a flawless seven-under 65 to take a two-shot lead over Swede Robert Karlsson, while a host of others, including Miguel Angel Jimenez, are on four under.
Molinari rolled in birdies on the fourth and fifth, but would have to wait until the eleventh for his next one.
The former Ryder Cup star, who is coming off a runner-up finish at last week’s Open de Espana, then took advantage of the three par fives and the short par three to grab the outright lead.
“I think I missed one green on the third and chipped up to two feet, so it was as stress-free as it could be round here,” the 32-year-old told europeantour.com.
“I love this place and it’s good to be back. It rewards accuracy, which suits my game.”
Fellow Ryder Cup player Luke Donald is back on two under while Victor Dubuisson is a further shot back, level with defending champion Rory McIlroy.
There were also two notable absentees on day one. Three-time Major winner Padraig Harrington withdrew earlier in the day due to a shoulder injury, while Scot Stephen Gallacher is suffering with tendonitis in his wrist.
Latest
-
Courses
Six of the toughest holes in golf anywhere in the world
Check out six of the toughest holes in golf
-
Instruction
WATCH: Tommy Fleetwood explains his three-quarter swing
Tommy Fleetwood has an interesting swing style which has caught the attention of many.
-
Equipment
Lucas Glover raises eyebrows with new broomstick putter from L.A.B
Lucas Glover is set to switch the new L.A.B. Golf DF3 broomstick putter into his bag after a brief trial.
-
Videos
WATCH: Dog proves why he’s man’s best friend with refreshments delivery on golf course
Just when you think a man’s best friend couldn’t get any better somebody shows us they can.
-
Equipment
Cameron Young trialling unusual prototype club at The Players
Cameron Young is out to solve a great riddle of the Players Stadium Course in Palm Valley with an unusual but logical addition to his bag.
-
Courses
How much will a round at Glendower Golf Club’s championship course set you back?
Glendower Golf Club is both beautiful and challenging.
-
Equipment
Ping’s G730 irons deliver on promises of more distance and maximum forgiveness
Ping deliver easy-to-hit high-launch distance irons.
-
Videos
WATCH: Golfer defies logic with sand wedge escape filmed in super-satisfying slow-mo
You won’t see anything more satisfying today.
-
News
Rickie Fowler’s driver trials and tribulations show how tough it is for pros to find the right fit
The driver struggles have been real for Rickie Fowler.