A quick look at the top of the U.S. Open leaderboard following round one and fans will see some familiar names. Tiger Woods, David Toms, Justin Rose, Michael Thompson. Wait, who?
U.S. Open Golf 2012: Who Is Michael Thompson?
Michael Thompson led the U.S. Open after the first round, but who exactly is he?
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The relatively unknown Thompson not only finished the first round as one of six players under par, he held a three-stroke lead at 4-under. Thompson is in his second year on the PGA Tour after earning his tour card for the 2011 season. He has played in 40 PGA Tour events since 2011, with his best finish a coming last year at The McGladrey Classic where he finished third.
The 2012 U.S. Open is Thompson’s third appearance in a major championship. As an amateur, Thompson played in the 2008 Master and 2008 U.S. Open. While he missed the cut at The Masters, Thompson did have success in his first U.S. Open appearance. He finished tied for 28th at the 2008 U.S. Open, finishing as the low amateur.
Thursday’s first round was Thompson’s first major championship round in the 60’s. If he’s going to stay in contention this weekend, he may need a couple more.
For all your news and updates in the run up to the 2012 U.S. Open at Olympic, visit SB Nation's dedicated golf hub. Be sure to head over to USOpen.com for even more coverage from the event.
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