Ashun Wu makes flying start at the Omega European Masters

Ashun Wu made a strong start to the Omega European Masters. The Chinese player carded a 63 (-7) without a single bogey to take the outright lead after the opening round at Crans-sur-Sierre Golf Club.

Back on the DP World Tour after seven weeks away from competition, Wu wasted no time finding his rhythm. The 41-year-old, a five-time winner on the European circuit, produced a flawless 63, seven under par, matching his lowest score on the DP World Tour in almost four years.

“I was very happy to come back here. What a lovely place. I enjoy being here, and everything looks like it’s going pretty well,” said Wu after his round.

After seven weeks away, during which he worked extensively on his swing with his coach in the United States, the Chinese star appears to have rediscovered his confidence.

“This week, I feel a lot better with my swing,” he added.

Just one shot behind Wu, Thriston Lawrence also enjoyed an excellent opening day. The South African, defending champion at Crans-Montana, carded a 64 (-6) to move within one stroke of the lead.

Lawrence got off to a flying start with six birdies over his opening nine holes. He was unable to maintain that pace on the back nine, however, finishing his final nine holes level par.

Lawrence now has three more rounds to defend his title and add another chapter to his impressive record at Crans-Montana.

Ángel Ayora also shares second place with Lawrence after a solid bogey-free 64. The Spaniard, who has recently been working on adjustments to his swing, finished particularly strongly with a run of four birdies in five holes from the 13th.

“Today, I did everything very good. My putting was good and hitting the ball was pretty good,” said Ayora.

Having gained valuable experience playing at altitude in Crans-Montana, the Spaniard believes distance control will once again be crucial this week.

Also at six under par are Todd Clements, Nicolai von Dellingshausen and Shubhankar Sharma. All three took advantage of the excellent conditions to card rounds of 64.

Clements highlighted the exceptional quality of the greens and his improved putting, while von Dellingshausen showed impressive resilience after experiencing some physical discomfort during his round.