ERIN, Wis. — Wisconsin native Steve Stricker drew vocal crowds as he made his way around Erin Hills during Thursday's first round at the U.S. Open.
But a strong start, with birdies on the first two holes, quickly fizzled.
The former Illini bogeyed the next two holes, and came just inches close from hitting a birdie putt on 18 to finish at 1-over 73.
"All in all, it's 1 over. It's not great. I need a good one (today) to get back in there," said Stricker, who lives in Madison.
A fan favorite at Erin Hills, Stricker is one of the most respected players on the tour.