Haotong Li leads, Rory McIlroy three back after first round of WGC-HSBC Champions

Haotong Li shot an eight-under 64 to grab the first-round lead at the WGC-HSBC Champions on Thursday at Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai, China. He’s the first player from China to ever lead after any round of a WGC event. Here’s what you missed in the opening round.

The contenders

Li has a one-shot lead over Victor Perez and leads four others, which includes Adam Scott and defending champ Xander Schauffele, by two. Rory McIlroy is in a three-way tie for seventh at five under, three off the lead.

Best shot

Tony Finau almost made an albatross, but Louis Oosthuizen did one better with ace on the par-3 6th hole. He shot 68 and is tied for 10th.

How about this shot by @Louis57TM. 🙌

The first #ULTRAace of this year's WGC-HSBC Champions. pic.twitter.com/l3EVMscwPH

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) October 31, 2019

Presidents Cup watch

This is the last event before both Presidents Cup captains make their captain’s picks next week, therefore it’s the final audition for some players who might be on the bubble. For Tiger Woods’ U.S. squad, Chez Reavie and Tony Finau shot 69, Jordan Spieth signed for a 70, and Patrick Reed and Kevin Kisner both shot 72. Phil Mickelson, who already said his play has been so poor he doesn’t deserve a pick even if he wins this week, shot 71.