Åberg Takes the Lead at RBC Heritage as MacIntyre Bounces Back

Ludvig Åberg has taken the top spot after the first round of the RBC Heritage, with Robert MacIntyre making a strong comeback following his dramatic performance at The Masters. Åberg, from Sweden, delivered an impressive eight-under 63, securing a one-shot lead over his Ryder Cup teammate Viktor Hovland and American Harris English. The PGA Tour resumed just days after Rory McIlroy's victory at Augusta National, with a strong field competing at Harbour Town Golf Links in South Carolina. England's Matt Fitzpatrick is among a group of six players two shots behind the leader, on six under. Åberg expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, 'It was a great day in terms of scoring. Being bogey-free and making eight birdies is always a good day.' He highlighted his iron play and approach shots as the key to his success. MacIntyre, who had a tough week at Augusta National, including missing the cut and making an obscene gesture, put his controversies behind him to shoot five under on Thursday. The Scot is now among a group of five players three shots back from Åberg. World No 1 Scottie Scheffler recovered from a difficult start to shoot three under, while Ireland's Shane Lowry finished one under. England's Tommy Fleetwood is in danger of missing the cut after finishing five over, and American Justin Thomas struggled to a 76. MacIntyre reflected on his round, discussing the challenge of controlling his emotions and his strategy for the tournament.