Power Opens The American Express with a Five-Under 67
Séamus Power wasted no time making an impression on the opening day of The American Express in California, firing a five-under 67 that featured six birdies. The Irishman’s steady start positioned him among the early leaders as the tournament returns to La Quinta for a multi-course test that continues to draw a strong field to the desert foothills outside Palm Springs.
Early momentum on a three-course setup
The American Express is known for its unique format, with rounds spread across the Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course, the La Quinta Cove course, and the Stadium Course at PGA West. Power’s solid start on one of the event’s demanding layouts shows his comfort with the varying rhythms of the venues. His round highlighted a mix of precise iron play, smooth putting, and the ability to convert chances when opportunities arose.
Birdie barrage and key moments
Power rolled in six birdies on Thursday, illustrating a round built on smart decisions and excellent course management. The birdie stretch came on a handful of holes where approach shots found the green and left him with clean lines on the closing putts. The round also tested his resilience on days when the wind can swirl through the valley, demanding patience and a measured approach to each hole.
What this means for Power and his season
Entering a pivotal portion of the PGA Tour calendar, Power’s strong start at The American Express could set the tone for a breakout stretch. A five-under 67 keeps him within striking distance of the leaders and serves as a reminder of his scoring capability in varied conditions. For Power, the key will be translating Thursday’s success into consistent rounds over the next three days amidst a field that includes several of the game’s elite performers.
Course strategy and adaptation
La Quinta’s three-course format challenges players to adapt on the fly. Power’s ability to read the greens and manage his game across different turf and wind profiles will be tested repeatedly. The layout encourages aggressive play on certain holes but demands prudence on others, making sustained low scores a product of both risk assessment and execution. As the rounds unfold, spectators will watch Power adjust to evolving pin positions and course conditions that can shift quickly with the desert weather.
What to watch for next
Power will aim to build on Thursday’s momentum by maintaining balance between aggressive scoring and steady conservatism where needed. Look for continued strong iron play, mid-range birdie chances, and a sharpened short game that can salvage par-savers on tough holes. The competitive field at The American Express rewards players who can maintain tempo across all three courses, and Power’s start signals he’s up for the challenge.
Final thoughts
As the tournament moves deeper into its format, Séamus Power’s five-under round demonstrates his comfort level in California’s desert conditions and sets a hopeful tone for the rest of his week. Fans and analysts alike will be tracking his progress over the next two rounds as he eyes a potential high finish and valuable FedExCup momentum.
Overall, opening with a 67 at a prestigious event like The American Express is more than just a score; it’s a message that Power is ready to contend and capable of navigating the distinctive demands of La Quinta and its multi-course setup.
