Steve Stricker equalled the lowest round in a major to take control of the PGA Championship on Thursday while fellow American Tiger Woods spectacularly self-destructed after making a red-hot start.
The 44-year-old Stricker, who has yet to win one of golf's Grand Slam events, fired a flawless seven-under-par 63 on a sweltering, sun-baked day at Atlanta Athletic Club to grab a two-shot lead.
American hopes of a first major victory since Phil Mickelson won last year's Masters were given a further lift with Jerry Kelly next best after carding a six-birdie 65.
Atwal's poor start
India's Arjun Atwal made yet another horrendous start to a Major with an eight-over 78.
Woods, posted his worst ever opening round in a Major as he imploded on the way to a 77 after making three birdies in his first five holes. Stricker, long regarded as one of the best putters in the game, birdied five of his first nine holes and picked up two more shots after the turn to become the 23rd player to shoot a 63 in a Major.
The World No. 5 came close to an eighth birdie of the day at the par-four ninth, his final hole, and a first-ever 62 in a Major after hitting a superb approach to 12 feet. However, he pushed his first putt past the right edge of the cup and had to settle for a two-putt par.
Brave McIlroy
Perhaps the bravest round of the day came from U.S. Open champion Rory McIlroy, who carded a level-par 70 despite playing the last 15 holes with an injured right wrist.
The 22-year-old Northern Irishman struck a tree root on his downswing from the left rough at the par-four third, losing control of his club as he injured his forearm and wrist.
However he continued to play on in discomfort and pain, repeatedly receiving medical attention and eventually having his right forearm strapped up for extra support.
The scores (all USA unless indicated): 63: Steve Stricker; 65: Jerry Kelly; 66: Shaun Micheel; 67: Scott Verplank; 68: Matteo Manassero (Ita), Brendon de Jonge (Zim), Davis Love, John Senden (Aus), Bill Haas, Brandt Jobe, Anders Hansen (Den), Simon Dyson (Eng).
