Keegan Bradley Surges to Lead at BMW Championship

CASTLE ROCK, Colo. (AP) — Keegan Bradley emerged as the frontrunner at the BMW Championship, carding a 6-under 66 to secure a one-shot lead. The newly appointed U.S. Ryder Cup captain expressed relief at making the 50-man field after a tense wait for his postseason qualification. His performance in the mile-high air of Castle Pines showcased his skill and determination, setting a positive tone for the tournament. Rory McIlroy faced a challenging finish, marked by a three-hour delay after play was halted while he was preparing for a crucial par putt on the 18th hole. Ultimately, he completed the round with a score of 70. Meanwhile, Adam Scott, a veteran of the Castle Pines course, managed a solid 68, joining fellow competitors Sungjae Im, Alex Noren, and Corey Conners in the mix. Scottie Scheffler, who is poised to secure the No. 1 seed at the upcoming Tour Championship, remains focused on his performance despite experiencing some physical discomfort during the round. His back issues have been a recurring concern, as noted by fellow competitor Xander Schauffele, who highlighted Scheffler's previous struggles at major tournaments. As the tournament progresses, players are not only contending with the competition but also the unique challenges posed by the high elevation of Castle Pines, which adds an extra layer of complexity to their game. The stakes are high as players aim for a strong finish in the postseason.