Lucas Herbert has once again showcased his golfing prowess, pulling ahead of his LIV Golf teammate Cameron Smith to secure the first-round clubhouse lead at the Australian Open in Melbourne. Herbert capitalized on the soggy fairways with a stellar performance, wrapping up his opening round with an eagle on the final hole to finish at eight-under-par 63 at Victoria Golf Club on Thursday. This impressive score puts him one stroke ahead of 2023 Japanese amateur champion Rintaro Nakano and American Ryggs Johnston, who both finished the day with seven-under 65s at Kingston Heath. Meanwhile, Smith, who had some choice words for officials regarding the course’s setup, ended his day with a six-under 65, leaving him just one shot behind the leaders. Smith’s round was marked by an incredible streak of six consecutive birdies following a shaky start, showcasing his determination to bounce back after an early mistake. The 2022 British Open champion expressed confidence in his game, noting the course conditions were favorable with soft greens and minimal wind. However, he faces a challenge in catching Herbert, who is riding high after recently winning the NSW Open. Herbert’s bogey-free round featured six birdies and an eagle at the ninth, and he is optimistic about his chances in the coming rounds. Notably, former world No. 2 Minjee Lee struggled in her opening round, finishing two-over 74, putting her eight shots behind LPGA Tour peer Su Oh, who impressed with a six-under 66. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Herbert and Smith, as well as the other contenders vying for the prestigious Stonehaven Cup.
