LIV Golf Chicago Round 1: Garcia and Johnson Share Lead at Bolingbrook

Tournament Leaders

Sergio Garcia and Dustin Johnson emerged as co-leaders after the opening round at Bolingbrook Golf Club,each carding remarkable 4-under 67s. Garcia’s dynamic round featured eight birdies offset by four bogeys, while Johnson maintained steady play despite a closing bogey.

Notable Contenders

A formidable group sits just one shot behind at 3-under 68,including Brooks Koepka,Phil Mickelson,Bryson DeChambeau,Jon Rahm,Tyrrell Hatton,and Dean Burmester. Koepka showed particular promise wiht three consecutive birdies on holes 10-12, marking a potential return to form after recent struggles.

Course Conditions and Scoring

The challenging Bolingbrook layout, combined with hot and windy conditions, yielded a field scoring average of +0.41. Players faced strategic decisions throughout the course, with the lengthy layout testing both power and precision.

Roster Implications

Several players competing for 2026 roster positions faced difficulties, notably Ian Poulter (T45, +3) and Henrik Stenson (+4). Though, Mito Pereira and Andy Ogletree positioned themselves well with matching 2-under 69s, tied for ninth position.

Tournament Outlook

With minimal separation at the top of the leaderboard and challenging conditions expected to continue, the stage is set for an intensely competitive weekend at LIV Golf Chicago.The tournament remains wide open, with multiple major champions within striking distance of the lead.