AMERICANS Justin Hicks and Kevin Streelman are tied for the lead after carding three-under-par 68s in yesterday’s first round of the US Open.

The pair hold a one-stroke lead over Rocco Mediate, Stuart Appleby, Eric Axley and 2006 US Open champion Geoff Ogilvy who are tied for third at two-under 69.

Tiger Woods overcame an opening stumble - a double bogey at the first - to close on one over par with 72.

“You couldn’t ask for a worse start than what I got off to, six on the very first hole out of the gate,” Woods said. “I figured you’re going to make bogeys out here, I just happened to make two on the very first hole.

“I just wanted to clean it up, get going and get to even-par as fast as I could and then from there, let’s get to under-par for the day, and I did that.

“I got to under-par at the turn and just didn’t keep it there.”

In addition, Woods made it through an entire round on his repaired knee for the first time, and did so without feeling anything out of the ordinary, save for a grimace of discomfort on the 18th tee.

“It didn’t feel very good, no,” Woods said of his knee after the drive on 18. “It’s a little sore. I just had to go and play. But all in all, just tee it up and go. I’m right there. I’m only four back and I’m in good shape.”

Lee Westwood continued his encouraging form with a one-under-par 70 and found the course to his liking.

“This is as good as I’ve ever seen a US Open golf course set up,” Westwood said.

“I think that it’s well documented that the USGA held their hands up when they set the golf course up on Sunday at Shinnecock (in 2004). Last year for me was a little too tough as well, extremely when you missed the fairways.

“But it’s perfect. I think that if I was on the USGA committee, this golf course would be exactly how I wanted it.”

Shaw Hill attached Nick Dougherty and Warrington's Phil Archer had days to forget after both finished the day on seven over.

Who is your tip for victory? Have your say.