Tony Finau delivered a stellar performance at the Houston Open, matching his career low on the PGA Tour with a remarkable 8-under 62 on Friday. Finau's exceptional round set a challenging target for his competitors as he aims to secure back-to-back victories at the tournament.
Following his opening round, Finau dedicated time to refining his putting skills with coach Boyd Summerhays, a decision that proved to be highly rewarding. The golfer showcased his prowess on the greens by sinking four putts from distances of approximately 25 feet or longer, including a spectacular chip-in for eagle from 40 feet on the par-5 eighth hole.
Despite narrowly missing a 15-footer on his final hole, Finau expressed contentment with his performance, acknowledging the unpredictability of the game. This marks the sixth occasion Finau has carded a 62, with his most recent achievement occurring at the previous Houston Open.
Finau, who clinched victory at the Houston Open in November 2022, faced a 16-month wait to defend his title due to the tournament's rescheduling to the spring ahead of the Masters. The course conditions have transitioned from Bermuda grass in the fall to lush overseeded terrain with limited rough.
The key to Finau's success in the second round was his putting prowess, a facet of his game that he diligently honed with Summerhays after an opening round of 69.
Scottie Scheffler, the current world No. 1 player seeking his third consecutive win, tackled Memorial Park in the afternoon as the wind intensified. Among the morning wave finishers, Chad Ramey's 66 positioned him as the closest pursuer to Finau, trailing by four shots at 9-under 131.
Tom Hoge rebounded from a slow start with a 66, joining the group at 3-under 137. Hoge's quest to secure a top-five finish to enhance his world ranking and earn a coveted Masters invitation remains a focal point of his campaign.
U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark encountered challenges due to a back issue but managed to post a 68, finishing seven shots adrift of Finau. Despite his own struggles, Clark lauded Finau's exceptional round, emphasizing the latter's exceptional ball-striking and putting display.
Wilson Furr, who shared the first-round lead, endured a tough day, failing to register a birdie in his round of 75 and falling eight shots behind Finau's commanding lead.
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