Theegala, Rai tied 13th after opening round at Zurich Classic
AVONDALE, La. — Sahith Theegala and Aaron Rai opened their campaign at the Zurich Classic with a steady performance, posting a 10-under-par round in the opening day of the PGA Tour’s only official team event.
Competing in the four-ball (best ball) format, the duo combined effectively but finished tied for 13th, trailing the early leaders by several shots.
Both players delivered standout moments, each recording an eagle. Rai produced a highlight on the par-4 13th hole, holing out from 106 yards for an eagle. Theegala had earlier eagled the par-5 second hole, helping the pair build early momentum.
Despite those highlights, the competitive field kept them outside the top tier after the first round.
Americans Alex Smalley and Hayden Springer set the pace with a 14-under 58, matching the tournament record. Davis Thompson and Austin Eckroat followed one shot behind after a strong stretch that included an eagle and eight consecutive birdies.
Sudarshan Yellamaraju, another player of Indian origin, teamed with Ryan Gerard to post a 7-under round, leaving them tied for 42nd. English brothers Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick combined for an 8-under 64, placing them within striking distance despite sitting six shots off the lead.
Among notable pairings, Shane Lowry and Brooks Koepka struggled to gain ground, carding a 6-under 66 and sitting outside the top 40.
The tournament continues with alternating formats, returning to four-ball play before shifting to the more demanding foursomes format. With multiple rounds remaining, Theegala and Rai will look to build on their start and move up the leaderboard. (Source: IANS)
