The Baycurrent Classic, the only PGA Tour event held in Japan and relocated this year to Yokohama Country Club, is attracting international attention with a competitive field and challenging conditions.

The tournament's challenging weather, influenced by a nearby typhoon, prompted earlier tee times and affected players' performances, making the course even more demanding.

Since its move from east of Tokyo, where it was known as the Zozo Championship, the Baycurrent Classic has a rich history dating back to 2019, featuring past champions like Tiger Woods and Hideki Matsuyama.

After the first round, American players Max Greyserman, Bud Cauley, and Brian Campbell lead with a 4-under 67, with Cauley notably shooting a bogey-free round.

The opening day saw a tightly contested leaderboard, with eight players just one shot behind the leaders and seven more two shots back, highlighting the tournament's competitive nature.

Japanese star Hideki Matsuyama struggled with the tough conditions, shooting 72 and facing four bogeys and two birdies, illustrating the difficulty faced by local players.

Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa, both U.S. Ryder Cup players, also faced challenges in the windy conditions, finishing with even-par 71s and trailing by four shots.

Australian Adam Scott, tied for fourth, expressed a preference for windier conditions, which he believes level the playing field, and performed well with four birdies in the first six holes.

The Yokohama Country Club's course, praised for its slopes and bunkers, offers a more fun and creative challenge this year, with players like Greyserman comparing it to a linksy, Northeast-style golf course.

Greyserman, who is among the leaders, also highlighted the cultural differences between Japanese and American golf fans, noting that Japanese fans are more respectful and see golf as an art form, often imitating swings.

Despite the tough weather, players like Bud Cauley managed to avoid bogeys, emphasizing the importance of limiting mistakes in such conditions.

The tournament has been praised for its vibrant atmosphere and the passionate support from Japanese fans, who are known for their respectful and enthusiastic presence.