Fowler leads the way at US Open

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Rickie Fowler took advantage of the calmer morning conditions at Erin Hills to card a seven-under 65, tying a 37-year-old record.

The American – who is still searching for his maiden major win – was flawless, rolling in seven birdies on the slick greens, including a final gain on the par five 18th.

That certainly put a spring in Fowler’s step as he marched of with his girlfriend to sign his card.

“You don’t get many rounds at the U.S. Open that are stress-free,” quipped the 28-year-old afterwards.

“Just did a good job, knew I needed to drive it well, and from there, [I was] just able to manage hitting and continuing to swing well, rolling a couple in.

“So, simple day when you look back on it, and how we kind of pieced our way around the golf course. A lot easier said than done.”

The round ties a 37-year-old record for first-round scoring at the US Open. Who is the other guy, you ask? Just Jack Nicklaus, no biggie.

“It’s cool, but it’s just the first round,” said a humble Fowler.

“It is always cool to be part of some sort of history in golf. But I’d rather be remembered for something that’s done on Sunday.

“I don’t need a whole lot more after putting 7 up today.”

Further down the field, world number one and defending champion Dustin Johnson suffered on the back nine – his first nine – with a double bogey and two bogeys leading to a three-over 75. Jordan Spieth did his best with a cold putter, with two bogeys and a birdie helping him to a one-over 73.

Rickie Fowler The Majors US Open

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