Vilips shoots 62, leads Mexico Open

Karl Vilips shot a career-low 9-under 62 to lead the first round of the VidantaWorld Mexico Open, stringing together five birdies early and four more to finish despite feeling ill. Japan’s Kensei Hirata was one stroke back at 63, while five players, including Ben Griffin, shared third at 64. Mexico’s Álvaro Ortiz carded a bogey-free 65, and players including Vilips and Hirata are also trying to improve their FedEx Cup Fall positions and secure PGA Tour status for next season. The Mexico Open begins two consecutive PGA Tour events in Mexico, with next week’s tournament set for Los Cabos.