Photo: Aaron Doster ~ Imagn Images
DETROIT, June 26, 2025 ~ The 2025 Rocket Classic kicked off in grand fashion at the historic Detroit Golf Club, bringing the energy of the PGA Tour back to the Motor City.
Australian golfer Min Woo Lee stole the spotlight Thursday morning, firing a sensational 9-under-par 63 to tie the course record at Detroit Golf Club. Starting on the back nine, Lee opened with a birdie-bogey combo before catching fire, carding 10 birdies in total — including a closing stretch of three straight to seize the early clubhouse lead. His precision was on full display as he hit 16 of 18 greens in regulation. The 25-year-old, who already claimed his first PGA Tour win earlier this season in Houston, now finds himself in prime position to contend for another title.
PODCAST:
June 26, 2025 ~ The man who brought the Rocket Classic to Detroit, Dan Gilbert, joins Mark Hollis to discuss what it takes to bring a top-notch event to the Motor City.
(CONTINUED) Spectators at Detroit Golf Club witnessed an eventful opening round, with cheers echoing through the tree-lined fairways. Fans followed marquee groups that included Rickie Fowler, Matt Fitzpatrick and defending champion Cam Davis, who opened with a 68. Lee’s strong performance drew significant attention, particularly during his closing stretch of birdies. With favorable weather conditions expected to continue, the tournament is well positioned for a competitive and engaging weekend.
Rocket Founder and Chairman Dan Gilbert said to WJR‘s Mark Hollis “Everyone loves golf. Our team members are excited about it, the community has embraced it, and local businesses are fully on board. Viewers are tuning in, and now we’re seeing strong support from the players as well.”
Since its inception in 2019, the tournament has become a staple of Detroit’s summer sports calendar, offering fans a unique blend of world-class golf and community engagement. The event not only showcases elite talent but also highlights the city’s ongoing revitalization, with proceeds supporting digital inclusion initiatives across Detroit neighborhoods. With fans lining the fairways and local businesses buzzing, the tournament continues to be a celebration of both sport and city spirit.
The second round continues Friday morning at 6:45 a.m. with the group of Justin Lower, Mac Meissner and Isaiah Salinda.
Follow live coverage all weekend on 760 WJR and at WJR.com.
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