RIYADH, Feb. 5 (Xinhua) -- LIV Golf Riyadh 2026 opened on Wednesday at Riyadh Golf Club, with a tightly packed leaderboard taking shape after the opening round of the season-opening event on the global LIV Golf calendar.

LIV Golf newcomer Thomas Detry (4Aces GC) and Peter Uihlein (RangeGoats GC) share the early lead at seven-under-par, while Australian rookie Elvis Smylie (Ripper GC) sits one shot back on six-under-par following an impressive league debut.

"It was really fun, I definitely enjoyed it," Detry said. "I think I was just happy out there. I was really happy."

Co-leader Uihlein said: "I enjoy it. There's nothing like this, so I have a great time."

Making his LIV Golf debut, Elvis Smylie of Ripper GC shot a confident opening round of 66 (-6). Speaking on what contributed to his low round at Riyadh Golf Club, Smylie said, "I think there was a little bit of nerves and excitement, but I think I showed what I'm capable of tonight. It's an environment where I feel like I'm really thriving, and I have some great teammates to learn off and achieve some great things together."

The event runs from February 4 to 7. Now in its fourth season, the LIV Golf League features 13 teams competing for both an Individual and Team title.