Bridgeman Opens with 63 to Lead Baycurrent Classic; Smith One Back
Jacob Bridgeman carded a bogey-free 8-under 63 to take the first-round lead at the Baycurrent Classic in Yokohama. Jordan Smith sits one stroke behind after a bogey-free 64, while Max Homa is among four players two shots off the pace. Bridgeman is chasing victories in consecutive PGA Tour starts after winning the Biltmore Championship Asheville.
Jacob Bridgeman’s opening 63 at Yokohama Country Club matched his best first round on the PGA Tour, a mark he also set at the 2024 3M Open. The American, who clinched the Presidents Cup for the U.S. at Medinah, returned after a week off and limited practice. He now seeks consecutive Tour wins after taking the Biltmore Championship Asheville, adding to earlier success at the Genesis Invitational.
Jordan Smith, in his first complete PGA Tour campaign, opened with a 64 in his Baycurrent debut. Max Homa’s 65 was his best in 13 rounds at this event. Hideki Matsuyama, Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, Jordan Spieth and Rickie Fowler also began in the 72-player field, which has no cut.
Bridgeman’s fast start and star names may draw more viewers to this Japan event, potentially boosting local tourism and sponsor interest in Yokohama. Japanese fans could see Matsuyama and others contend, while players use the no-cut event to build momentum. A strong showing by emerging names may raise their profiles