Scottie Scheffler fired a nine-under-par 61 in the second round of the FedEx St. Jude Championship on Friday, equalling the course record at TPC Southwind and building a three-stroke lead. The world number one, who entered the first of three playoff events atop the FedEx Cup standings, achieved his impressive score by birding the first five holes.
Scheffler added six more birdies, with only two bogeys on the eighth and 12th holes marring his scorecard. This marked his fourth career round of 61 or better on the PGA Tour. "Really just a dream start. Probably one of the best starts I've had on tour, to be honest with you," Scheffler said. "I couldn't tell you a time where I've been lower early in the round." He added that his swing had felt strong in recent weeks, allowing him to build momentum early in the round.
South Korea's Im Sung-jae and Norway's Viktor Hovland are tied for second place, both at eight under par. Ludvig Aberg of Sweden is one shot further back.
Reigning FedEx Cup champion Tommy Fleetwood of England is the highest-ranked British player, currently tied for sixth place at six under with Americans Jordan Spieth and Billy Horschel, as well as Colombia's Nico Echavarria. Matt Fitzpatrick of England is at three under, while Aaron Rai is at two under. Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy is currently at four over par.
There is no 36-hole cut in the FedEx Cup playoff events, meaning McIlroy will have the weekend to improve his position.
Scotland's Robert MacIntyre withdrew from the tournament prior to the start of Friday's play due to a knee injury. MacIntyre, who shot a 12-over 82 in the first round, is currently 31st in the FedEx Cup points list. The top 50 players in the standings will advance to next week's BMW Championship.