Opening-Round Ace Helps Kirk Seize St. Jude Lead, With Matsuyama Right Behind

Opening-Round Ace Helps Kirk Seize St. Jude Lead, With Matsuyama Right Behind
Chris Kirk lines up a putt on the sixth green during the first round of the St. Jude Championship in Memphis, Tenn., on Aug. 15, 2024. Mark Humphrey/AP Photo
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MEMPHIS, Tenn.—Hideki Matsuyama lost his wallet in London. He also lost his caddie and coach for the start of the FedEx Cup playoffs after thieves snatched their bag and passports. None of that seemed to bother the Japanese star Thursday in the start of the PGA Tour’s postseason.

Chris Kirk made a hole-in-one on his way to a 6–under 64 for a one-shot lead in the FedEx St. Jude Championship. Olympic gold medalist Scottie Scheffler and double major winner Xander Schauffele, the best two players in golf, were right in the mix as expected.