Sweden's Ludvig Åberg has taken the lead at the RBC Heritage after a stunning opening round, while Robert MacIntyre made a strong start following his dramatic exit from The Masters. Åberg carded an impressive eight-under 63 to establish a one-shot lead over Viktor Hovland and Harris English. MacIntyre, who endured a tough week at Augusta National, put his controversy behind him to shoot five under and sit three shots back from Åberg. World No 1 Scottie Scheffler recovered from a shaky 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. Åberg said his iron play and approach shots were the highlights of his round, and he felt 'super-pleased' with his performance. MacIntyre, meanwhile, spoke about the challenge of controlling his emotions after his disappointing performance at The Masters, saying he wears his heart on his sleeve but is trying to put the past behind him and focus on his game.