Jacob Bridgeman has thrown open the door to triumph at the Baycurrent Classic in Japan with an 8-under 63, relentlessly continuing his impressive fall form. The American seized the lead in Yokohama after delivering a flawless, bogey-free masterclass round, making a clear statement. Bridgeman, who already claimed the Biltmore Championship Asheville last month and recently sank the decisive putt at the Presidents Cup in Chicago, currently appears to be riding a very special wave.
Putter on Fire
The secret to his early dominance? A putter running hot like a samurai sword in a forge. Bridgeman started with an unreal 47-foot birdie on Hole 13, followed up with a 29-foot putt on Hole 2, and then sank four consecutive birdies from shorter range. He gained over five strokes on the greens – and this was already his 21st round this season where he gained at least two strokes putting. On the PGA Tour, this is the absolute best.
The Field in Pursuit
The Baycurrent Classic is a 72-player, no-cut event and the third stop in the FedExCup Fall. The Yokohama Country Club is being played as a 7,322-yard (6,695-meter) par-71 course. Bridgeman currently holds a one-stroke lead over England's Jordan Smith, while Ricky Castillo, Pierceson Coody, and Mac Meissner are two strokes back. Even defending champion Xander Schauffele started somewhat reservedly with a 1-under 70, while Collin Morikawa delivered a 4-under 67 but still has some ground to make up. World No. 20 Bridgeman is also among the players who have recorded the most Strokes Gained in the last three months.
The big question now is: Can Bridgeman maintain this incredible putting performance over the coming days? His 63 was the best opening round of the season, but stronger winds are expected on Friday and Saturday. This will be a true test for the rising star.
