Justin Rose Shatters 36-Hole Record at Torrey Pines; Brooks Koepka Advances to Weekend
At the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course during the Farmers Insurance Open, Justin Rose delivered a breathtaking performance Friday to rewrite the tournament record books and seize control of the leaderboard, while Brooks Koepka earned his spot in the weekend rounds in his long-anticipated return to the PGA Tour.
Rose, the seasoned English star, followed an opening 62 on the North Course with an impressive 7-under-par 65 on the South Course, combining an eagle with six birdies to total 17-under-par through 36 holes. That score not only propelled him into a comfortable lead, but also broke the tournament’s 36-hole scoring record by two shots a mark he himself had set.
The South Course at Torrey Pines is known for its difficulty and has twice hosted the U.S. Open, making Rose’s accomplishment even more remarkable. His stellar play highlighted by smooth iron shots, clutch putting and smart course management leaves him four strokes clear of his closest competitor, Ireland’s Seamus Power, as the tournament heads into the weekend.
“It’s hard to often follow up a low one,” Rose said after his round, acknowledging the challenge of transitioning from the easier North Course to the tougher South. “But today was kind of cool to keep momentum out there.”
Koepka Makes the Cut in PGA Tour Return
Meanwhile, all eyes were on Brooks Koepka, the five-time major champion making his PGA Tour return after nearly four years competing in the LIV Golf League. After a shaky start with a 73 in the first round, Koepka found his footing Friday on the North Course, carding a 4-under-par 68 that included timely birdies and an eagle.
Koepka’s second-round performance was enough to make the cut at 3-under-par, securing weekend play despite finishing well behind Rose. It marks a positive step in his comeback, as he adapts back to Tour conditions and the notoriously tricky poa annua greens at Torrey Pines.
“Today felt more normal,” Koepka said after his round. “I feel like I’m playing really well. It’s just been a long layoff.”
Leaderboard Notes & What’s Ahead
With Rose leading and Koepka continuing his pursuit, the weekend at Torrey Pines promises compelling golf. Notable contenders like Joel Dahmen and Max McGreevy remain in the mix, though several big names including Xander Schauffele, whose impressive 72-tournament cut streak ended are already heading home.
As competition shifts into the final two rounds, all eyes will be on whether Rose can maintain his torrid pace and capture another PGA Tour title, and whether Koepka can build momentum in his return to the sport’s main stage.
Source: TSN
Image Credit Wikimedia Commons
