Round 1 Recap: The American Express – League Picks in Focus

 The 2025 American Express is underway, and the unique three-course, 54-hole cut format has already brought plenty of excitement. With birdies flying and a competitive field, let’s see how the league’s selections fared in the opening round in La Quinta, California.

Round 1 Highlights

Top Performers:

  • JJ Spaun (77 OWGR): Spaun came out firing, carding an impressive 64 to co-lead the field. His stellar iron play and sharp putting made him a standout on Day 1.
  • Joel Dahmen (240 OWGR): Dahmen matched Spaun’s 64, proving that experience and consistency can shine regardless of ranking.
  • Will Zalatoris (65 OWGR): Showing no signs of rust after his injury, Zalatoris shot a smooth 66, placing himself firmly in the hunt.
  • Ben Griffin (68 OWGR) and Harry Hall (82 OWGR): Both joined the early contenders with strong 66s, making a statement in the opening round.

Solid Showings:

A number of picks kept themselves in contention:

  • Justin Thomas (21 OWGR): A composed 67 positions him for a strong push in the next two rounds.
  • Nick Dunlap (32 OWGR): Matching Thomas with a solid 67, Dunlap is proving he can handle the pressure.
  • Patrick Cantlay (12 OWGR), Sam Burns (20 OWGR), Eric Cole (51 OWGR), Brian Harman (28 OWGR), Si Woo Kim (69 OWGR): All posted consistent 68s, showing they are poised for a run at the weekend.
  • Tony Finau (24 OWGR), Cam Davis (52 OWGR), Tom Hoge (63 OWGR), Adam Hadwin (66 OWGR), Kurt Kitayama (73 OWGR): Their 69s keep them in the mix, needing steady play to secure a spot after the cut.

Tough Starts:

Not everyone managed to navigate the opening round with ease:

  • Sungjae Im (19 OWGR): A surprising 77 puts Im in a deep hole and leaves his chances of making the cut hanging by a thread.
  • Christian Bezuidenhout (57 OWGR): A shaky 74 leaves Bezuidenhout needing low scores in the next two rounds to stay in contention.
  • Brendan Todd (113 OWGR): A disappointing 76 means Todd will need a near-flawless performance to avoid missing the cut.

What’s Next?

With two rounds remaining before the 54-hole cut, the pressure is on for those outside the projected cut line. The multi-course rotation adds an extra layer of strategy, as players will face different challenges each day.

Predictions for Rounds 2 & 3:

  • Leaders to Watch: Expect JJ Spaun, Joel Dahmen, and Will Zalatoris to continue their strong play and jockey for position atop the leaderboard.
  • Rising Stars: Justin Thomas and Nick Dunlap could surge into contention with consistent rounds.
  • Cut Drama: Sungjae Im, Brendan Todd, and Christian Bezuidenhout need exceptional rounds to stay in the mix.

The American Express always delivers thrilling storylines, and this year is no exception. With the cut looming after Round 3, every shot matters as players jockey for position.

Who do you think will rise to the occasion in the next two rounds? Share your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for more updates!

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