U.S. rookie Koivun debuts at Presidents Cup paired with Justin Thomas

Jackson Koivun, the 21-year-old former Auburn star, makes his Presidents Cup debut Thursday at Medinah Country Club. Captain Brandt Snedeker selected him as a captain's pick after Koivun turned pro early, won the 3M Open in his third start—with Scottie Scheffler runner-up—and reached the FedEx Cup playoffs in five starts. He is paired with Justin Thomas in the third of five opening four-ball matches against Corey Conners and Nico Echavarria. Koivun told reporters Wednesday he will feel nerves on the first tee but expects to settle once that shot is gone. Thomas has worked with him in practice rounds Monday and Tuesday. Collin Morikawa said history favors the U.S. side that has won the last 10 Cups, yet added that tomorrow starts 0-0. Snedeker said the game plan is set and it is time to let the players play. International captain Geoff Ogilvy said these events are momentum-based and recalled the 2024 Royal Montreal shutout swings. Tee listings differ slightly between 11:30 and 11:35 a.m. CT. Opening four-balls begin Thursday.