Kevin Kisner of the United States surged to the top of the early British Open leaderboard here yesterday as Jordan Spieth's defence of the Claret Jug got off to an inauspicious start at Carnoustie. Kisner went out in one of the first groups and had an eagle and four birdies in his five-under-par round of 66 on a perfect summer's morning on Scotland's east coast.

Americans have won the last five majors and will take some beating this week, with Spieth, World No. 1 Dustin Johnson and Tiger Woods all hoping to be in contention. However, a poor end to his first round saw Spieth finish the day one over par after a 72. He went to the 15th tee three-under, only to drop three shots on the next two holes. He then drove into the Barry Burn on the 18th, and ended with another bogey.