Matt Wallace Leads CJ Cup Byron with defending Champ Jason Day three back

The CJ Cup Byron Nelson kicked off on Thursday at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, Texas, with Englishman Matt Wallace emerging early leader. Wallace shot an impressive 8-under-par 63, birdieing five of his first six holes, to take a one-shot lead over Chesson Hadley, Taylor Pendrith, and Alex Noren. Wallace's bogey-free round showcased his focus and determination. "Watching some of the best players in the world, and what I'm seeing from a lot of them, especially the younger guys, younger than me -- I'm not too old, but younger than me -- they're so focused in their shot and not worrying about the outcome or what's out there,"Wallace said. "That's what I'm trying to do now. So this might be test number 158 of me with a different round of golf."

Meanwhile, three-time major winner Jordan Spieth, the pre-tournament betting favorite, shot a 3-under 68, leaving him tied for 22nd place. Spieth, who has struggled recently with only one top-10 finish in his last seven events, remains optimistic about a turnaround. "Sometimes that can be disguised right before it happens," Spieth said. "I'm believing that has been the case and need a couple confidence-building rounds or whatever it may be, and feel like I go on a really nice run. That's the plan." Spieth draws inspiration from fellow golfer Scottie Scheffler, who has won four of the last five tournaments he's participated in. "I am inspired by what he is doing," Spieth said. "It makes me want to go out and get better."

Over the past week, Spieth has worked to put his mediocre performances behind him, focusing on a clear mind and a "restart" at the Byron Nelson. He feels confident about the work he's put in and believes he's close to achieving great things. Spieth aims to raise his game to Scheffler's current level, saying, "I have nothing in my way of being able to make that happen but my own self... I believe in my ceiling, and I believe my ceiling is as high as anybody's."

Other notable performances in the first round include Jason Day, who is tied for 7th with a 5-under 66, and 16-year-old amateur Kris Kim from England, who made his PGA Tour debut and shot a 3-under 68. Brad Hopfinger, a 35-year-old who Monday qualified into the Byron Nelson, fired a 6-under 65 to join a tie for fifth.

The CJ Cup Byron Nelson continues, with Wallace looking to maintain his lead and secure his first victory on U.S. soil. soil. For Spieth, the tournament presents an opportunity to turn his season around and regain the form that has made him one of the world's top golfers. With a strong field and ideal playing conditions, the stage is set for an exciting weekend of golf at TPC Craig Ranch.

Key Takeaways

• Matt Wallace leads CJ Cup Byron Nelson with 8-under 63.
• Jordan Spieth shoots 3-under 68, tied for 22nd, seeking turnaround.
• Spieth draws inspiration from Scottie Scheffler's recent wins.
• Notable performances: Jason Day (5-under 66), Kris Kim (3-under 68), Brad Hopfinger (6-under 65).
• Tournament continues with Wallace aiming for first US win, Spieth seeking season revival.