MEDINAH, Ill. (WLS) — The first round of matches at the Presidents Cup is complete, with the United States off to a strong start after the opening five matches. Fans packed the grounds at Medinah Country Club, following their favorite golfers and taking advantage of favorable weather as tournament play got underway.

One of the most popular spots on the course was the practice area, where spectators gathered in hopes of securing autographs from some of the world’s top golfers. Si Woo Kim stopped to sign items for fans before his match, but not every autograph seeker got the signature they wanted.

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Eight-year-old Vincent DiBenedetto was hoping to meet Scottie Scheffler.

“Whose autograph do you want? Scottie Scheffler. How’s that working out? Not good,” DiBenedetto said.

Many young fans seeking an autograph from the top American player were left disappointed when Scheffler headed directly to the first tee without stopping.

Others had better luck. Mason Harlow received a golf ball from Sungjae Im after attending the event with his grandmother, Sue Janosky, who said the trip was worth missing a day of school.

“Good excuse to miss school? Yes it is. Once in a lifetime,” Janosky said.

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Fans from around the world filled the course throughout the day, creating large galleries around players. Beyond the competition, spectators found a range of food options provided by restaurant sponsor Lettuce Entertain You. Food from several Chicago restaurants was available, including pizza, barbecue and sushi, in picnic areas named after Chicago neighborhoods such as the Loop.

The event also attracted local celebrities. Former Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose spent time with fans on the grounds. Rose’s flower shop designed the bouquet surrounding the Presidents Cup trophy that the winning team will take home.

“I know they were surprised to see me here at a Golf event. Most of my peers they are playing golf right now but I’m terrible,” Rose said.

Meanwhile, autograph seekers continued collecting signatures throughout the day. Seven-year-old Tripp Meyers proudly showed off a flag bearing several autographs.

“Whose names? Mine and my brothers. That’s more valuable than Scottie Scheffler? Yeah,” Meyers said.

The Presidents Cup continues at Medinah Country Club through Sunday.

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