De Bruyn, ranked No. 818, makes 11 birdies and shoots 9 under to lead European Open by 4 strokes

HAMBURG, Germany — 

Jannik De Bruyn, a 24-year-old German ranked No. 818, was a surprising first-round leader by four shots at the European Open in his home country after a 9-under 64 on Thursday.

De Bruyn, who graduated from qualifying school at the end of 2023, made 11 birdies at Green Eagle Golf Courses in Hamburg — including six of his first seven holes and then each of his final four holes.

He missed the cut in six of his last eight tournaments, with the undoubted highlight in that period being a tie for 13th at the Indian Open.

Laurie Canter of England and Jack Davidson of Wales, who is ranked No. 810, were tied for second place after shooting 68s in a rare par 73 layout on the European tour.