Bridgeman near PGA title at Genesis: Rory McIlroy lurking

Jacob Bridgeman Shines at the Genesis Invitational and Leads with Authority

Jacob Bridgeman had a stellar performance at the Genesis Invitational, demonstrating solid play and an impeccable swing that captured everyone’s attention at Riviera. Bridgeman, playing in the final group, delivered the best card of the day with an impressive 7-under par 64. Bridgeman, who started the day tied at the top, finished with a six-stroke lead over Rory McIlroy.

It was fun and easy, the best that the golf world can offer. My swing felt good and it was fun to be out there. Everyone was cheering, so yes, it was a good day.

Jacob Bridgeman

While most spectators closely followed McIlroy and Xander Schauffele, Bridgeman starred in memorable moments, including an impressive 7-wood shot to 30 inches on the 4th hole for birdie. Bridgeman’s round was full of successes, with seven birdies and an eagle on the 11th hole, where his 7-wood from 259 yards almost went in, leaving the ball only 8 inches from the hole. Now, Bridgeman seeks his first title on the PGA Tour, with the possibility of breaking the circuit’s oldest 72-hole record. Bridgeman finishes with a total of 19-under par 194, while the current record is 20-under par 264, set by Lanny Wadkins in 1985.

Rory McIlroy, for his part, had a round of 69, with seven consecutive pars at the end. McIlroy will seek to put pressure on Bridgeman in the final round.

I’m six shots back. I need to start strong, try to put some pressure on, and I hope I can do it.

Rory McIlroy

Bridgeman, 26 years old, showed great confidence and play, with two initial birdies and an excellent shot on the 4th hole. Bridgeman extended his lead with birdie-eagle-birdie on the back nine, highlighting a 7-wood shot that left the ball near the hole and a 12-foot putt for birdie on the difficult 12th hole. Bridgeman’s previous experience playing with McIlroy at the BMW Championship and at East Lake gives him confidence for the final round. I know he’s going to play well tomorrow. I know I can’t relax at all. But I think I feel comfortable. Bridgeman only had a small mistake on the 8th hole. Otherwise, it was an exceptional display of golf.

Being able to do this in this setting in Riviera is a dream.

Jacob Bridgeman

Other competitors, such as Aaron Rai and Xander Schauffele, failed to get close to Bridgeman. Marco Penge, who shared the lead after 36 holes, had a difficult round and fell behind in the standings. Scottie Scheffler, who barely made the cut, finished the day 14 strokes behind Bridgeman.