GOLF.AI • Sep 18, 2026

Grind vs. Rest at Biltmore

The top of the Biltmore Championship leaderboard after round one presents a fascinating study in contrasts. Co-leaders Eric Cole and Max Greyserman both carded impressive 7-under 64s, but their journeys to that shared lead could not be more different, sparking a classic debate: what is the true key to success on the PGA TOUR?

On one side is Max Greyserman, the embodiment of the mental reset. He arrived in Asheville fresh off a five-week break from golf. During his time off, he traveled to Italy with his wife—their first trip without their young son—and barely practiced. His preparation was minimal, yet he fired a stellar opening round. Greyserman credits his performance to a fresh perspective, noting that a new course can be "freeing because you don’t have any bad memories to pull up." His approach suggests that sometimes, the best preparation is no preparation at all.

On the other side stands Eric Cole, the relentless workhorse. As one of the TOUR's most active players, Cole is making his 131st start in pursuit of his first win. Despite already being secure for the 2027 season, his drive to compete is unquenchable. "I worked a lot, really hard and a lot of years to get to the PGA Tour, so any chance I have to play and compete out here is something that means a lot to me," Cole said. His philosophy is one of constant motion, believing that staying sharp comes from staying in the competitive arena.

The Asheville paradox is set: the grinder versus the well-rested. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on which philosophy prevails—Cole’s relentless momentum or Greyserman’s revitalized mindset.