Straka starts with 67 in Kitzbühel, Steinlechner scores 65

Austrian golfer Sepp Straka has commenced the Austrian Alpine Open in Kitzbühel with an opening round of 67 strokes (-3). For the four-time PGA Tour winner, it marked his first tournament in Austria in eight years, and he acknowledged the significant crowd support.

Straka experienced an early setback with a ball in the water on his opening hole but managed to save par. He later secured several birdies throughout the round, expressing satisfaction with his performance, particularly his short game, and his growing comfort on the course.

Local talent Maximilian Steinlechner delivered the tournament's leading score with a 65 (-5). His impressive round included eight birdies, offset by one bogey and one double bogey. Steinlechner expressed enjoyment in playing the DP World Tour event in his home region of Tyrol, emphasizing a relaxed approach.

"I'm just enjoying that the Austrian Alpine Open is taking place in Tyrol this year, and I'm not putting any stress on myself," Steinlechner stated, believing he can compete at the top.

Among other Austrian participants, Alexander Kopp finished with a 69 (-1). Amateur players Jakob Lotschak and Tim Hofmann carded 72 (+2), and David Ennsmann scored 74 (+4).