What a sensational round Scottie Scheffler delivered on Friday at the FedEx St. Jude Championship! The world No. 1 claimed the TPC Southwind course record with an unbelievable 9-under 61, grabbing a three-shot lead in the opening event of the FedExCup Playoffs. You could just drop your driver and stare in awe.
Scheffler's performance was a true statement: Eleven birdies adorned his scorecard. He started phenomenally, birdieing his first five holes in a row – and six of the first seven holes overall. As if that weren't enough, he added more birdies on holes 15, 16, and 17 before parring the final green. His overall score of 11-under 129 left his competitors trembling; Sungjae Im, his closest pursuer, trailed by a significant margin.
Battle in the Heat and Record Chase
What's particularly impressive is that Scheffler not only tied this record score of 61, but he achieved it in sweltering Memphis heat, where the thermometer climbed well above 37 degrees Celsius (98 degrees Fahrenheit). This places him among the players who have also shot a 61 on this course, including Justin Rose in 2023. Incidentally, this was his best round since he conjured up a 60 at the Travelers Championship in June.
McIlroy Struggles
While Scheffler dominated the course, Rory McIlroy experienced a Friday to forget. After another difficult round of 4-over par, he found himself far from the lead. Bogeys on holes 17 and 18 in the second round cemented a frustrating start to his postseason campaign. For McIlroy, it's now about damage control, while others battle for the coveted spots at next week's BMW Championship.
Following this Friday, one thing is certain: Scottie Scheffler is firmly in the driver's seat and controls the field heading into the weekend. Live coverage and the constantly shifting cut line will keep the tension high, as the playoff contenders continue to fight for their ticket to the next round.
