U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark made history at Pebble Beach during the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am when he achieved a remarkable course record on Saturday. Clark's exceptional performance saw him shoot an impressive 12-under 60, putting him in a strong position to secure another significant title and a staggering $3.6 million in prize money.
Clark's round was nothing short of extraordinary, with every shot seemingly going his way and every putt finding the bottom of the cup. Despite the cold and soggy conditions, he came agonizingly close to shooting a sub-60 round. His scorecard included five putts from 25 feet or longer, highlighting his exceptional putting prowess. Even when faced with a challenging chip shot, Clark managed to salvage a bogey with a remarkable left-handed putt.
Finishing one shot ahead of Ludvig Aberg, who shot a 67, Clark's lead might also benefit from Mother Nature's intervention. Rain began to fall towards the end of Clark's round, and heavy downpours were expected to continue overnight, further saturating the course. Additionally, the anticipated gusts of wind approaching 60 mph pose a significant concern for the feasibility of playing the final round.
Gary Young, the chief referee for the PGA Tour, confirmed that officials would make a decision regarding the tournament schedule before dawn on Sunday. The determination would depend on whether the weather conditions would allow for play, and if not, whether they could complete 54 holes by Monday. If the latter scenario unfolds, it would mark the first time a full signature event on the PGA Tour is shortened to 54 holes.
Reflecting on his spectacular performance, Clark acknowledged the impending weather challenges but remained focused on his game. Despite toying with the idea of a potential 54-hole victory, he didn't bank on it and was ready to give his all in case he needed to hit more shots.
During his record-breaking round, Clark maintained a clear mindset, solely focused on hitting shots and sinking putts. He mentioned an exceptional feel on the greens, which helped him accumulate an incredible 190 feet of putts, including two eagles on the front nine. With an impressive total of ten under through 11 holes, Clark had the possibility of shooting a 59 in his sights until a lone bogey interrupted his relentless charge. Nevertheless, his ability to bounce back with two birdies showcased his determination and resilience.
The day took an exciting turn for Clark on the 16th hole. Despite his drive finding the deep, wet rough, he received an unexpected break as the ball landed in an area where an animal had been digging. This allowed him a free drop and a clean lie. With the greens exceptionally soft, Clark capitalized on his lucky break and came inches away from sinking a downhill birdie putt on the ensuing hole, narrowly missing a 59 attempt on the 18th.
Clark's superb round not only shattered the tournament record held by four players but also surpassed the course record set by Hurly Long of Germany in 2017 during the Carmel Cup. However, it is worth noting that the PGA Tour counts records when players are permitted to lift, clean, and place their balls in the short grass, a privilege not provided by the European tour.
As Clark anxiously awaits the verdict on the tournament's future, tournament officials aim to complete all 72 holes if possible. Should the final round face a delay, it would result in a significantly prolonged day for the players. Nevertheless, both Clark and Aberg, who remained bogey-free for two days at Pebble Beach, displayed exceptional form and will be ready to give their best when weather conditions allow.
Matthieu Pavon, a recent winner at Torrey Pines, finished strongly with a birdie on his last hole, securing a third-place position with a solid 66. Scottie Scheffler, who started the tournament in a three-way tie for the lead, shot a 70, placing him four shots behind Clark.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the conclusion of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Wyndham Clark's historic round will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest performances in the tournament's history. Whether the story continues with a full 72-hole event or is cut short to 54 holes, Clark's sensational achievement has already left an indelible mark on Pebble Beach.
