Stenson and Antcliff lead in Prague

Maverick Antcliff and Henrik Stenson share the first-round lead at the D+D REAL Czech Masters after carding five-under-par rounds of 67 at Albatross Golf Resort.

Stenson made a perfect start in the Czech capital as he hopes to force his way into Ryder Cup contention with strong performances in the final four counting qualification events. It is the first time the 45-year-old has held or shared a first round lead on the European Tour since the start of the 2017 season.
“I’m very happy with the score. I hit some really good shots, on nine in particular, those two good ones. There were a couple of swings I’m not overly happy with – my commitment – I’ve been working hard on the swing, I need to keep on working hard," said Stenson.
"I still managed to miss in the right places and kept it tidy around the greens and the putter was working fine today. I’m happy with the score and the progress I’m making. Commitment can be a little better and confidence can definitely be a little bit better."

The highlight of the Swede’s bogey-free round came on the par five ninth hole as he hit his second shot with his famed three wood to within three feet, tapping in for eagle. Antcliff, of Australia, moved to five under par with his sixth birdie of the day on the par four 17th hole.
Nine competitors share third on four-under-par, including home favourite Ondřej Lieser, who recovered from bogeys on his opening two holes, 2016 champion Paul Peterson of the United States and 2016 Masters Tournament winner Danny Willett, who is also staking a claim for a place in Pádraig Harrington’s team at Whistling Straits next month.