Kim Fires Bogey-Free 63 to Grab Early Lead in Paris
Michael Kim carded a bogey-free 63 with eight birdies to take a two-shot lead after the first round of the FedEx Open de France. Seven players, including Matt Fitzpatrick, are tied for second at 6-under. Kim, the defending champion, previously shot a 59 at the 3M Open in July.
Kim's 63 marks his second standout round in two months, following his historic 59 at the 3M Open in July, where he needed just 21 putts. He won this event last year when it was staged at a different venue while Le Golf National underwent renovations. His round featured a front-nine 31 and three consecutive birdies from the 5th through the 9th holes. Fitzpatrick, competing here for the first time since 2018, joined a seven-way tie for second with a bogey-free 65. Frenchman Adrien Saddier eagled his final hole with a seven-iron, celebrating alongside his four-year-old son.
Kim's recent scoring surge could draw increased attention to the DP World Tour from American golf fans, particularly as he builds momentum toward major championships. His success at a renovated Le Golf National may also spotlight the venue's demanding water hazards and strategic design, potentially influencing how viewers perceive European courses. The tournament's qualifying tie to the 2027 Open adds stakes for lesser-known players, which could broaden engagement beyond established stars and deepen interest in the tour's international field.