Alfred Dunhill Links Championship: Matthew Jordan shares lead as Ryder Cup contingent return to action

Matthew Jordan has a share of the lead after the first round of the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship as some of Europe’s Ryder Cup contingent returned to action alongside A-list celebrities.

The 29-year-old Englishman shot a nine-under 63 on the Old Course at St Andrews – one shot off equalling the course record.

Jordan is tied for top spot alongside American Ryan Brehm and Dutchman Darius van Driel, who had nine-under rounds at Kingsbarns.

Two-time major champion Dustin Johnson is a shot off the lead after an eight-under 64 at Carnoustie.

Defending champion Tyrrell Hatton is six under, alongside Ryder Cup team-mate Robert MacIntyre.

Another two of the victorious Europe team that won on US soil, Tommy Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick, are both at five under.

Jordan made superb start with consecutive birdies on the third and fourth followed by back-to-back eagles at the fifth and sixth.

He carded a further four birdies on the back nine, only for a dropped shot at the 17th denying him the outright lead.

“I think that’s probably the first time I’ve gone eagle-eagle in a tournament, so that certainly helps, and then all of a sudden just trying to keep carrying it on,” said Jordan.

“Any time you get to play this place, especially with no wind, it’s just so enjoyable.”