“Drama Unfolds at Waialae: Fishburn and McCarthy Battle for Top Honors in Thrilling PGA Tour Sony Open Showdown”
**Leaderboard Tied at Sony Open After Round 1**
HONOLULU, Jan. 11, 2025, 12:42 AM ET — The first round of the 2025 Sony Open has come to a close, with Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy tied for the lead at 10-under par 130. The pair will head into the opening weekend with a one-shot advantage over Kensei Hirata and Eric Cole, who finished the day with a 63 and 67, respectively.
Patrick Fishburn started the day strong with three consecutive birdies on the back nine and chipped in for birdie on the fifth hole. He added another birdie later in the round to finish with a 5-under 65. Denny McCarthy, on the other hand, overcame a sluggish start by making a clutch 25-foot birdie putt on the fifth hole and birdied again to end his round.
The cut was made at 137, 3 under par, with 2024 winner and FedEx Top 50 player Billy Horschel, Chris Kirk, and Austin Eckroat all failing to make the cut.
McCarthy was philosophical about the short putts he missed early in the round, citing the crowded conditions and long putts he made later in the day. Fishburn, in contrast, was relieved to have made his second-straight trip to the Sony Open after a tough rookie season, which left him outside the top 100 in the FedExCup standings.
For the second time in his career, Fishburn will play his second-round at the Waialae Country Club, having initially missed the cut as a Korn Ferry Tour graduate before securing a spot in the field.
While the history books are filled with impressive scores at the Sony Open, McCarthy believes this year’s edition will be different. “It’s definitely harder this time,” he said. “You’re not going to win a 35-under championship here.”
The top five players entering the weekend, including McCarthy and Fishburn, are all looking for their first PGA Tour win, which could have significant implications for their Masters eligibility. With 25 players within four shots of the lead and 36 holes remaining, victory is still a long way off.
Sepp Straka and Zach Johnson, both Ryder Cup stars, are two shots behind the leaders, while other notable players like Hideki Matsuyama and Gary Woodland are within striking distance.
**FAQ:**
Q: Who is tied for the lead after the first round of the Sony Open?
A: Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy are tied at 10-under par 130.
Q: What is the cut line for the tournament?
A: The cut was made at 137, 3 under par, with 2024 winner and FedEx Top 50 player Billy Horschel, Chris Kirk, and Austin Eckroat among those missing the cut.
Q: How many players are within four shots of the lead?
A: 25 players are within four shots of the lead heading into the opening weekend.
**Conclusion:**
The first round of the 2025 Sony Open has set the stage for an exciting weekend of golf, with Patrick Fishburn and Denny McCarthy tied for the lead and a number of top players within striking distance. While the scores may not be as low as those seen in recent years, the competition is sure to be fierce, with the top five players seeking their first PGA Tour victory. As the players prepare for the second round, the Hawaiian weather remains a factor, with temperatures expected to drop and winds picking up. Stay tuned for continued coverage of the 2025 Sony Open.
