Masters champion Phil Mickelson rolled in a downhill, 18-foot eagle putt on his final hole to vault into a three-way tie for the lead at the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am last night.

The world number six completed a seven-under-par 65 at Poppy Hills Golf Club, one of three venues being used this week, to join fellow Americans John Mallinger and Nick Watney at the top of the first-round leaderboard.

Luke Donald endured an horrific day at Poppy Hills where he shot a six-over 78, while Padraig Harrington and Brian Davis fared little better, with a 74 and 76, respectively.

Tour rookie Mallinger, taking advantage of calm morning conditions, produced a blemish-free display at the hosting Pebble Beach Golf Links while Watney birdied two of his last four holes at Poppy Hills.

"It was a fun day, even though it was windy at times, and I don't think I've ever driven the ball this well before," an upbeat Mickelson told reporters after setting up his eagle at the par-five ninth with a four-iron approach from 230 yards.

"My game has been progressing from week to week and I really can't wait to test my driving in some tough weather."

Wind and rain have been forecast for today's second round when twice winner Mickelson is scheduled to play Pebble Beach, the most exposed of the three layouts.

World number two Jim Furyk was two strokes off the pace in a share of fourth after recovering from an erratic start to shoot an eight-birdie 67 at Spyglass Hill Golf Club.

American Furyk picked up five shots after the turn to finish level with compatriot Jason Schultz, who also played at Spyglass Hill, and India's Arjun Atwal, after opening at Pebble Beach.

Of the other big names, twice champion Davis Love III carded a 70 at Poppy Hills, three-times major winner Vijay Singh a 73 at Spyglass Hill.

The field of 180 professionals and 180 amateurs play each of the three venues over the first three days before the leading 60 professionals and ties qualify for Sunday's final round on the Pebble Beach Golf Links.