LIV golfer Brooks Koepka had it going for him early on in Round 1 of the U.S. Open Thursday from Pinehurst. The five-time Major champion shot minus-three in the front 10, hitting on three birdies without a bogey.
Things started going downhill for the volatile figure from there. He hit three bogies in the final six holes to finish the opening round an even 70.
The backdrop here is obvious. Koepka exited the PGA Tour for LIV Golf back in June of 2022. It has been a major talking point between the 34-year-old and media.
Following his up-and-down Round 1 performance, Koepka refused media availability. It wasn’t necessarily too surprising given his relationship with those who cover golf.
But he did agree to a text interview with Eamon Lynch of Golf Week to explain why he declined media availability. Ironic, right?
“I opted not to do ‘em just because I didn’t feel like it. Same questions every week,” Brook Koepka said. “The lack of creativity with questions is kinda boring. I know I’m not a media favorite either so it’s not like anyone will notice.”
Koepka was also asked if the LIV Golf narrative played a role in him skipping the media session.
“Really haven’t done much media, to be fair. PGA [Championship] was the last time I had media. It’s not a punishment thing,” Koepka said. “I always answer and didn’t really feel like it this week. Just to be clear.”
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Brooks Koepka looking to capture first major since last May
Koepka won back-to-back U.S. Open titles in 2017 and 2018. It was an amazing run that saw him win four major titles within a two-year span. He has captured one major since, winning the PGA Championship last May.
As for whether he’s frustrated after struggles to conclude the first round, Koepka was happy about some facets of his game.
“Felt in control of iron play. Brain fart on 13 and 15. Just didn’t do much wrong,” Koepka said. “Missed it where I wanted. Sixteen was my bad drive of day and didn’t get lucky in the native area, which is what you get when you hit it in there. Just part of Pinehurst and what makes it good.”
Koepka is currently five shots off the lead after Patrick Cantlay put up a near record-breaking first round in Pinehurst.