Gary Woodland holds early lead at US PGA Championship

Gary Woodland has recorded an opening-round 64 to top the leaderboard after Thursday's play at the US PGA Championship.

The American had started the tournament with a bogey, but seven birdies across his next 17 holes gave him a one-shot advantage over compatriot Rickie Fowler.

Zach Johnson and Brandon Stone hold a share of third place, while Dustin Johnson, Justin Rose, Jason Day and Ian Poulter are among a group of players who currently sit three shots off the pace.

Tiger Woods dropped three shots during his opening two holes at Bellerive, but recovered to post a first-round score of 70 to end Thursday on level-par.

Rory McIlroy also produced a round of 70, but Englishman Paul Casey is off the pace after only shooting a five-over-par round of 75.

US PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

1. Gary Woodland (-6) 2. Rickie Fowler (-5) 3. Brandon Stone (-4) = Zach Johnson (-4)