Russell Henley seizes two-shot lead at Players Championship with 'birdie blitz'

American golfer Russell Henley has seized an early two-shot lead in Thursday's opening round of the Players Championship with an impressive birdie blitz at the par-72 Stadium Course at Florida, US.

American Henley raced home in six-under-par 30 to complete a seven-under-par 65 by scorching the back nine with a sizzling birdie blitz on an ideal day for low scoring at the TPC Sawgrass where the par-72 Stadium Course has been softened by recent rain.

According to Sport24, Henley piled up six birdies after the turn to set the early pace in the PGA Tour's flagship event, which is widely regarded as the unofficial fifth major, but some of golf's biggest names were close behind him.

The report mentioned that US Open champion Justin Rose, England's former world number one Lee Westwood and 2008 Players champion Sergio Garcia of Spain were among a large group on 67 while four-times major winner Ernie Els of South Africa carded a 68.

Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy got to five under after 11 holes on a hot and sunny day at the TPC Sawgrass but then struggled coming home on the way to an opening 70, British Open champion Phil Mickelson struggled to an opening 75 while Australian world number two Adam Scott was among the day's late starters, the report added.