Chris Kirk shot a 6-under 64, including a hole-in-one, to lead by one stroke at the FedEx St. Jude Championship. The round was notable for the ace he made on the 12th hole, using a 6-iron on a day with a heat index exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius). Despite a bogey on the 18th hole and a missed opportunity on the par-5 16th, Kirk’s performance put him in a strong position.
Hideki Matsuyama, who faced recent challenges including a stolen wallet and his caddie and coach losing their passports in London, managed a solid start to the PGA Tour postseason with a 65. Matsuyama, now working with new caddie Taiga Tabuchi, responded well after an initial bogey with a series of birdies, showcasing resilience despite recent disruptions.
Olympic gold medalist Scottie Scheffler and double major winner Xander Schauffele, both prominent players in golf, were also in contention, both shooting 66. Scheffler had four birdies but struggled with a bogey on the 12th hole, while Schauffele had three consecutive birdies and added another on the 16th, finishing bogey-free.
Taylor Pendrith of Canada and Matthieu Pavon of France, both first-time PGA Tour winners this year, joined Matsuyama at 65. Other notable players include Justin Rose and Ben Griffin, who began their campaigns to make the top 50 with rounds of 66. Jordan Spieth, ranked 63rd, shot a 62 but was slowed by two bogeys on the back nine.
Kirk, currently 28th in the FedEx Cup standings, needs to remain in the top 50 to advance to the BMW Championship. The top 30 from there will move on to the Tour Championship in Atlanta.
