Adam Scott delivered an impressive performance with a nine-under 63, securing a commanding three-stroke lead over Keegan Bradley after the second round of the BMW Championship at Castle Pines.
The seasoned Australian golfer, aiming for his first tour victory since February 2020, positioned himself as an unexpected front-runner in the FedEx Cup playoffs, sitting at 13-under-par following a remarkable second round.
Scott, the 2013 Masters champion, achieved nine birdies in his flawless round, finishing three strokes ahead of first-round leader Bradley, who recorded a second-round score of 68, just missing consecutive bogey-free rounds.
“It’s been a long time. I can’t remember the last time I shot a 63 out here,” Scott expressed. “But it feels good to go low, that I’ve still got that in me. Hopefully, there’s one more this week.”
Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg also shone with eight birdies, a bogey, and an eagle, matching Scott’s 63, putting him four shots behind the leader. Fellow Swede Alex Noren trails Aberg by one shot.
Meanwhile, world number one Scottie Scheffler struggled with an even-par 72, resulting in a tied ranking of 29th heading into the weekend, after being the frontrunner in the FedEx Cup standings as the Tour Championship approaches.
Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood are tied for 15th place at three under par.
Matsuyama Withdraws Due to Injury
In a disappointing turn of events, Hideki Matsuyama withdrew from the tournament Friday morning due to lower back pain, just one day after shooting an opening-round 67 and being one shot off the lead.
Matsuyama, currently ranked No. 6 in the world, expressed his disappointment in a statement, stating, “I am disappointed to have to withdraw from the BMW Championship after experiencing lower back discomfort while warming up this morning, which made it impossible to play.” He extended his gratitude to the event organizers for their support during his participation.
Having recently secured a win at the PGA Tour’s playoff opener in Memphis, Matsuyama is ranked No. 3 in the FedEx Cup standings, ensuring a solid position for the upcoming Tour Championship, where the winner stands to earn a $25 million bonus.
The former Masters champion boasts a total of 10 PGA Tour victories, including two this season.
Stay tuned for live coverage and updates from the FedEx Cup playoffs, featuring thrilling golf action and notable performances from top players in the sport.
