Despite being a newcomer to the Valspar Championship, professional golfer Will Zalatoris has swiftly formed an impression of the tournament’s course. Usually, the 28-year-old golfer graces the Houston Open, typically held a week after The Players Championship. However, this year saw Zalatoris swaying from his routine to participate in the Valspar Championship at the esteemed Innisbrook Golf Resort, a decision he doesn’t regret.
In the aftermath of the first round, the former world number 61 shared his positive views on the tournament’s course. Zalatoris’ introduction to the Championship was not without its trials, with a bogey on the 10th hole marking the start of his game. Yet, he remained undeterred, delivering what can be termed as an adequate performance. Securing an even-par 71, the golfer navigated the challenging Copperhead Course, trailing the leaders by four shots.
Sharing his thoughts on the course, Zalatoris said, “Yeah, I do [like it]. It’s very unique. We don’t really get to play courses like this that are, I would say, over time the greens have shrunk and you have this three to four yards of bunkering that’s just far off the green. So it’s definitely unique.”
His first time on the course, Zalatoris’ experience echoed the glowing reviews he had previously received. With its reputation for being a ball-striker’s paradise, the golfer was told he would love the course, and he wholeheartedly agreed. He did express a wish for a few more 15 to 20-footers, but the windy conditions were a challenging factor.
Indeed, the weather conditions during the Valspar Championship can play a significant role in the game. Golfers who played in the morning during the first round are assigned afternoon tee times for the second round, and vice versa. Unfortunately, Zalatoris found himself at the mercy of the wind on both days. On Thursday, gusty winds disrupted his afternoon game, while Friday’s forecast predicted a windier morning.
Commenting on the weather’s impact, Zalatoris admitted, “Yeah, the forecast is pretty unique because having the wind pick up throughout the day, have a little lull and then tomorrow it’s supposed to be windier in the morning.” He further added that the conditions required patience and contributed to the tight scoreboard. Despite these challenges, Zalatoris managed to stay in the game, even though he was four shots behind, equating to a 40th place ranking.
Completing his first round on Thursday, Zalatoris managed to avoid the suspension of play due to darkness, a fate some of his competitors had to face. His experience at the Valsator Championship has been a mix of trials and triumphs, but the golfer seems to be taking it all in stride, with the unique course and challenging weather conditions only adding to the excitement of the tournament.
