Scott starts on-song in California

Adam Scott on his way to 65 today. Image: Getty

Adam Scott came to the Safeway Open – his first PGA Tour start of a new season – and said he was too late to win.

And the Australian, at the point of veteran status, has placed himself in a position to achieve his goal.

Scott, 39, opened with a barrage of birdies and a long bomb for an eagle to shoot a 65 to start the event in California and lead by a shot through round one.

The Queenslander made putts everywhere, in particular a 10-meter bomb on the 14th hole and then another from an even greater distance for eagle on the par-five fifth, which started on the back nine.

He made only one bogey, at the par-four 13th hole from deep rough of the tee.

Scott had his best season in ages in 2018-19 and has risen to number 15 in the world.

His appearance in Silverado is part of his preparation for the Presidential Cup in Royal Melbourne in December.

It was a good day for Australians, with Aaron Baddeley also on the leaderboard after an opening 69, three-under par.

Meanwhile, during the Dunhill Links Championship in St. Andrews, crane legend Shane Warne has a share in the pro-am lead with New Zealand's Ryan Fox after the first round.