Sweden’s Christian Nilsson is again finding winning flavour in France after storming to the lead on day one of the French Open in Versailles.
Nilson, who broke through for his maiden Tour victory in capturing the 2009 St. Omer Open, posted a six under par 65 on the par 71 National course.
The 33-year now clean-shaven Swede birdied four of his opening eight holes and despite dropping a shot at the ninth he rebounded with birdies at 10, 14 and 15 to move one stroke clear of England’s Gary Boyd, Italian teen sensation, Matteo Manassero and in-form Thongchai Jaidee of Thailand who were in the clubhouse with five under par 66s.
- Christian Nilsson on route to a 66 on day one of French Open. (Photo – Jenny Matthews/www,golffile.ie)
“I am very happy with a 65 as it’s been a struggle for me this year,” said Nilsson.
“I really needed a good start like this on a tough a golf course, and it’s good for my confidence.
“So I am really, really pleased with a six under par.”
Strangely, Nilsson is making only his third appearance in the event. He posted a first round 66 on route to finishing 54th in 2007 and then last year, the Karlstad-born player finished in a share of 37th place.
And Nilsson is benefitting with the return of his Australian born caddy back on the bag.
Boyd quickly raced to three under par with birdies in his opening four holes. He then birdied the ninth and 10th holes before ending with eight straight pars.
The 25-year old Silverstone based Boyd is looking for his first Tour victory in more than 75 events since joining the Tour full time in 2010.
“It’s good and to be see my name on top of the leader board early days is nice,” said Boyd.
“I only played the back nine one under but then those last four holes are brutal and if you can play them in level par then you are probably picking up shots on the field.
“But it round to get in and a nice score under my belt, and to shoot five under par is good because I have never been a fast starter.”
Jaidee continues his impressive form after winning the recent Wales Open and with his Celtic Manor victory pivotal in the doulbe Asian Tour No. 1 qualifying last Sunday for next month’s British Open from a ‘mini’ money list.
