Gareth Bale: Retired Wales captain puts in strong first round in Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Bale, who has a two handicap, announced his retirement from football shortly after leading Wales at the World Cup finals in Qatar.

He joins actor Bill Murray, Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, actor Jason Bateman and rapper Mackelmore among the 156 amateurs taking part in the competition, which runs until 5 February.

Top professionals taking part include England's US Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick and former major champion Justin Rose.

Despite playing in front of big crowds during a glittering playing career that included five Champions League titles with Real Madrid, Bale admitted to being nervous on the first tee.

"I think every amateur will tell you that," he said. "Even if we are used to playing in front of 80,000 or more on live TV it's a completely different sport.

"It's a good experience but luckily I hit one of my best shots down the first fairway."

The first three rounds take place over three courses, including Pebble Beach, Monterey Peninsula and Spyglass Hill. The top 25 pro-am pairings in the better ball format will go through to play in the final round on the Pebble Beach Links Course.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7o67CZ5qopV%2BovbC%2B02ieqKSWZIN1gY9waHFo