Sungjae Im fired an opening 64 to take the lead at the Valspar Championship, carding two eagles on back-to-back par-fives before settling for seven under par. The South Korean recovered from missing two consecutive cuts following his return from a wrist injury, showing his best form since returning to competition.

Brandt Snedeker trails by one stroke after a bogey-free 65, his best round in 14 years. The 45-year-old, winless on tour for eight years, relied on his putter as USA Presidents Cup captain. Matt Fitzpatrick, runner-up at The Players Championship, sits four shots back after an opening 68.

Corey Conners provided excitement with consecutive eagles around the turn, while Jordan Spieth faded after a strong front nine with three bogeys on the closing "Snake Pit" stretch. Defending champion Viktor Hovland recovered to shoot one-under 70, with Brooks Koepka making his return at even par.