Opening Day Brilliance at Waialae Country Club

The 2026 Sony Open in Hawaii kicked off with an impressive display of skill at Waialae Country Club, as showcased in the Round 1 highlights from the PGA TOUR. The video captures the best shots of the day, spotlighting defending champion Nick Taylor, alongside strong contenders Ben Griffin and J.J. Spaun. The event, marking the first Full Field Event of the PGA TOUR season, drew attention with its competitive field and favorable early conditions for morning players.

Nick Taylor's Dominant Start

Defending champion Nick Taylor set the tone early in the tournament, delivering a remarkable performance that placed him tied for the lead after the first round. Around the 0:45 mark in the highlights, Taylor's precision off the tee and sharp putting are evident, reflecting his intent to defend his title. His score of 62, as reported by Golfweek, underscores his strong start, taking advantage of calmer winds in the morning session.

Ben Griffin's Steady Challenge

Ben Griffin emerged as another standout in Round 1, with consistent play that kept him near the top of the leaderboard. At approximately the 1:30 timestamp, the video showcases Griffin's ability to navigate Waialae’s challenging layout with finesse. His performance aligns with reports from PGA TOUR sources, noting his inclusion among the best shots of the day, positioning him as a serious contender heading into subsequent rounds.

J.J. Spaun's Notable Shots

J.J. Spaun also made his mark during the opening round, with key moments highlighted around the 2:10 point in the video. His accuracy and composure under pressure were on full display, earning him a spot among the top performers of the day. Spaun’s efforts, as captured in the PGA TOUR footage, contribute to the competitive atmosphere of the tournament, setting up an exciting battle over the remaining holes.

Conditions and Other Performers

The Round 1 highlights also feature other notable players, including Jordan Spieth, who made significant contributions to the day’s action. As noted by Golf Channel, early starters benefited from lighter winds before conditions toughened in the afternoon, impacting later groups. Around the 3:00 mark, the video illustrates how these varying conditions tested players’ adaptability, with only a few from the late wave managing to secure spots among the top 16 on the leaderboard.