Key Highlights:

• Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry both achieved remarkable holes-in-one during the Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
• Sepp Straka leads the tournament after posting a strong score of 65, three shots ahead of his competitors.
• Scottie Scheffler, returning to play after an injury, also made headlines with his adventurous par-saving play on the 18th hole.

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. (AP) — The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am showcased spectacular performances from Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, who both recorded holes-in-one during the first round. McIlroy made his outstanding ace on the 15th hole at Spyglass Hill from 119 yards, marking his second career hole-in-one on the PGA Tour. “It was a good swing, a good wedge shot, and it was a nice little moment,” McIlroy reflected after his impressive shot that helped him finish the round at 6-under 66.

Lowry matched the feat at the iconic par-three seventh hole at Pebble Beach, with his ball landing short and rolling in, igniting joyous celebrations among his teammates. This event marked the first time since 2009 that multiple aces were made in a single round at the Pebble Beach tournament, enhancing the excitement of the day amidst stunning coastal views.

However, leading the tournament is Sepp Straka, who posted a remarkable 7-under 65 to take a three-shot lead with a total score of 14-under 130. Straka's solid performance was complemented by his ability to weather less-than-ideal conditions, including cooler temperatures and increased winds. He acknowledged the change in weather could significantly impact scoring as the tournament progresses.

Additionally, Scottie Scheffler, returning after a month away due to a freak injury, managed to secure a solid 70 despite a rocky start. Scheffler faced a unique challenge on the 18th hole after pulling his tee shot, but showed remarkable ingenuity by recovering his ball from the beach and saving par in a harrowing but commendable effort.

The ongoing competition promises excitement as players adapt to the challenging conditions expected this weekend, with wind gusts predicted to reach up to 30 mph. As the tournament unfolds, the performances of established stars like McIlroy and Scheffler will surely be ones to watch closely.

For more information on the tournament, visit the AP Golf section.