British Open champion Padraig Harrington was among a string of European contenders who struggled on Thursday in the first round of the 108th US Open golf championship.

The Irishman carded a seven-over 78 on the Torrey Pines South course that included three double-bogeys, five bogeys and four birdies.

"I'm disappointed that I scored so badly," Harrington said. "I struggled all day. We knew the greens were going to be difficult in the afternoon and I just didn't chip the ball close enough all day.

"That was disappointing after driving the ball well," added Harrington, who said he had no idea if he had left himself a decent chance of making the cut.

"I don't know anything at the moment, I've just walked off the course so I've no idea what the scores are or anything."

England's Lee Westwood and Sweden's Robert Karlsson led the European contingent, who are trying to end a US Open victory drought that stretches back to Tony Jacklin's victory in 1970.

They were in a group on one-under 70, two shots off the lead held by Justin Hicks and Kevin Streelman.

"It's always nice to get off to a good start at the US Open," Westwood said. "It's not the kind of tournament that you want to feel like you're having to do any catching up."

Westwood's round included two birdies, one bogey and nine straight pars to finish. He teed off early and was delighted with the course.

"This as good as I've ever seen a US Open golf course set up," said the Englishman, whose best finish in the US Open was a tie for fifth in 2000.

In four starts since then he has missed the cut once and finished no higher than tied for 33rd.

He said he expected things to get more difficult as the week progressed.

"They probably will want the greens a little bit firmer, there was still a bit of moisture in them this morning," Westwood said.

England's Luke Donald fired an even-par 71, but others tipped as contenders struggled, including fellow Englishman Justin Rose (79).

Spain's Sergio Garcia, who earned a confidence-boosting victory in the prestigious Players Championship in May, settled for a five-over 76.

AFP