Block and Collet Share Lead at 2025 PGA Professional Championship

Port St. Lucie, Florida — The 2025 PGA Professional Championship kicked off on Sunday, April 27, with Michael Block and Tyler Collet leading the pack after the opening round. Block, a head golf professional from Mission Viejo, California, shot a stunning 7-under-par 64 on the Ryder course. Collet, based in Vero Beach, Florida, narrowly trailed with a 7-under 65 on the Wanamaker course.

Both players are vying for one of the 20 coveted spots in the PGA Championship next month at Quail Hollow Club, as well as a share of the total $750,000 purse. Block’s 64 marked just the second time such a score has been achieved in the Championship’s first round, falling short of the record.

“You’ve just got to go forward,” said Block, who began his round on the back nine and quickly birdied the first three holes. The father-son duo, with caddie Ethan, implemented a strategy of treating each shot as a fresh opportunity.

Collet, the Assistant Golf Professional at John’s Island Club, shared his thoughts on the course, saying, “The Wanamaker is really firm and fast.” His round included seven birdies, overcoming various challenges throughout the day.

Tied in third place at 6-under 65 are Jesse Mueller from Phoenix, Arizona, Tommi Avant from Chandler, Arizona, and Trevor Bensel from Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Mueller made an impressive start by birdieing his first five holes.

Defending champion Ben Polland is currently at T-40 after finishing 1-under 70. Notably, Darrell Kestner recorded a score of 8-over-par 79, marking his 31st appearance in the Championship.

As Block and Collet prepare for the second round, a 36-hole cut will eliminate competitors, highlighting the need for consistency and strategy on the challenging courses.

“We still have a game plan,” Collet said. “We’re going to stick to it and have some fun.” The tournament continues through April 30.