Scottie Scheffler sets course record at St Jude Championship
Scottie Scheffler achieved a remarkable nine-under-par 61 at the St Jude Championship, equalling the course record and establishing a commanding lead in the FedEx Cup play-offs. The world No 1’s impressive performance on Friday puts him three shots ahead of the field at TPC Southwind, reports BritPanorama.
Scheffler kicked off the second round with a stunning display, recording five consecutive birdies to rapidly ascend the leaderboard. Reflecting on his phenomenal start, he remarked that he could hardly recall experiencing such an explosive beginning during his PGA Tour career.
“Really just a dream start. Probably one of the best starts I’ve had on tour, to be honest with you. I couldn’t tell you a time where I’ve been lower early in the round,” Scheffler stated. His opening surge was just the beginning; he added another six birdies, with only bogeys on the eighth and 12th holes marring his round.
This achievement marks his fourth round of 61 or lower on the PGA Tour and matches the existing course record at TPC Southwind. Entering the FedEx Cup play-offs in pole position, Scheffler expressed confidence in his game, noting, “My swing has felt really good in the past couple weeks, especially playing at home.”
Heading into the weekend, Scheffler holds a significant advantage, although several notable competitors remain in the hunt. South Korea’s Im Sung-jae and Norway’s Viktor Hovland are closest at eight under, three strokes behind him. Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg trails by another shot, while reigning FedEx Cup champion Tommy Fleetwood is the highest-placed British player, six under par and five strokes off the lead. Meanwhile, superstar Rory McIlroy is struggling at four over after two rounds, although there is no halfway cut during the FedEx Cup play-offs, allowing him the opportunity to climb back into contention.
In a notable withdrawal, Robert MacIntyre has exited the tournament due to a knee injury sustained during the first round, where he posted a 12-over 82. He is currently placed 31st in the FedEx Cup standings, with only the top 50 advancing to next week’s BMW Championship.
Scheffler’s brilliance serves as a stark reminder of the volatile nature of golf, where rules of form can shift rapidly, leaving the competition keenly aware of the chase ahead.
