Stenson takes step towards ending major drought with 65

Michael Putnam tees off the 12th hole during the Final round of the RBC Canadian Open at Royal Montreal GC - Blue Course. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports

UNIVERSITY PLACE, Washington (Reuters) - Henrik Stenson, one of the best players not to win a major, took a positive first step towards erasing that moniker when he tied for the clubhouse lead during the first round at the U.S. Open on Thursday.

Stenson ticked all the boxes necessary for an excellent score, maintaining a good mental attitude, striking the ball well and, near the end, finding his touch on the greens to roll in four birdies in the final five holes.