Rickie Fowler and Co. torch new DGC in Round 1; one pro flirts with 59

Peter Malnati grabbed the early lead at the final Rocket Classic on Thursday, posting a 9-under 61 at the Detroit Golf Club. Malnati, who currently sits 565th in the world rankings, opened with a blistering 7-under 28 on his first nine holes. He flirted with a sub-60 round for much of the day after sinking a 55-foot birdie putt on the 11th hole.

Despite missing several birdie opportunities during the final stretch of the course, Malnati finished his bogey-free round to secure a new course record at the venue, which now plays as a par-70. He leads the field by two strokes over Rickie Fowler and Ryan Gerard, who both finished at 7-under 63. Other notable performers included Patrick Cantlay and Patrick Fishburn, who turned in 6-under 64s.

The tournament marks the eighth and final iteration of the Rocket Classic. Players navigated a significantly renovated course that saw $16.1 million in updates. While many expected the changes to make the course play more difficult, favorable conditions allowed for a number of low scores during the morning wave of play. Professional golfers praised the condition of the greens, noting that they remained receptive throughout the early round.

Malnati, 39, enters the tournament following a difficult stretch in his career where he made only seven of 17 cuts this season. He spoke openly after his round about the challenges of balancing life as a father of two with the demanding schedule of the PGA Tour. He remains committed to competing at the highest level despite recent struggles.

As the week progresses, scoring conditions may tighten as tournament officials adjust pin placements. Michael Brennan also made headlines on Thursday with eight consecutive birdies, nearly tying the PGA Tour record. Jordan Spieth, making his first appearance in Detroit, finished the day at 68. The tournament continues Friday as the field works to catch Malnati’s early lead on the modified layout.