What a statement! Henrik Stenson and Mario Tiziani have soared to the top of the Stifel Charity Classic, the opening event of the 2026 Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs, with two sensational rounds. After 36 holes, they share the lead at an incredible 9-under par (133 strokes), putting the competition on notice.
Mario Tiziani, in particular, showed his prowess on the greens. His second round was an 8-under par 63, completely bogey-free and featuring eight birdies. On the back nine alone, he shot a 5-under par 30 – a score that tied his career-best and simultaneously shattered the tournament record for the second round. A move that could propel his spot in the Charles Schwab Cup Standings from 49 to 13.
Stenson Piles on Pressure
But Swedish golfer Henrik Stenson also had a very strong outing. The 50-year-old posted a 7-under par 64 and also finished at 133 strokes. In his eighth start on the PGA Tour Champions, he is now chasing his first victory – and his form finally seems to be there. Stenson, who started from 56th place, would play his way into the top 16 of the overall standings with this performance.
Dramatic Finale Guaranteed
The stage is thus set for a thrilling final round. Shane Bertsch and Scott Parel are lurking just one shot behind at 8-under par, tied for third place. Just on Friday, Darren Clarke had led with a 7-under par 64, but Stenson's and Tiziani's sensational rounds have completely upended the leaderboard. The decision will be made on Sunday at Norwood Hills Country Club in St. Louis. It will be tight, it will be dramatic – exactly what the Playoffs need!
