Stenson stripshow steals Tiger's limelight

Stenson took an unorthodox approach to dealing with a tricky lie

Sweden's Henrik Stenson made a splash on day one of the WGC-CA Championship when he stripped down to his underwear on the third hole.

All eyes had been on Tiger Woods as he made his return to strokeplay action after nine months away, but it was Stenson who stole the limelight.

After the Ryder Cup star's wayward drive settled on mud at a water hazard he believed he had a good enough lie to hit his way out of trouble - but was forced to shed his clothes in the process.

"Because of the mud I couldn't really afford to play in any of my clothes as they would have been a real mess down the last six or so holes so I had no option," said Stenson after finishing on 69 in Florida.

"I was only wearing two things when I hit the shot, my jocks and my golf glove - that is the only thing that will appear in the picture aside from the golf club - just the way God created me.

"Shirt, trousers, socks, shoes, hat - the lot was off."

And the 32-year-old is expecting some ribbing when he returns to the course on Friday.

"I'm sure I'll hear a few comments and once the pictures get out I'll hear a few more no doubt," said the Swede.

"I'll probably take that to the grave with me. I don't think I scared too many spectators off the course.... I hope.

"You never know, I might have a new endorsement with Playgirl or something like that."