Michael Kim Fires Historic 59 to Take Commanding Lead at 3M Open
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
American golfer Michael Kim delivered one of the finest rounds in PGA Tour history on Friday, carding a sensational 59 during the second round of the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota.
The remarkable performance marked the 15th sub-60 round in PGA Tour history and gave Kim a three-shot lead heading into the weekend.
Historic Round Powers Kim to the Top
Kim completed his bogey-free round in spectacular fashion by making a 24-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole. He birdied each of his final four holes to finish with an impressive score of 59 and move to 14-under-par for the tournament.
The 32-year-old followed an opening-round 69 with one of the best rounds of his professional career, placing himself in a strong position to compete for the tournament title.
Three-Shot Advantage After Two Rounds
Kim enters the weekend with a comfortable three-shot lead over a group of challengers that includes Ben Kohles, Chandler Phillips, and Emiliano Grillo.
Kohles, who began Friday with a two-shot advantage, carded a 69 to fall into a tie for second. Phillips posted a 65, while Grillo added a solid 67 to remain in contention.
Meanwhile, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler finished the round with a 70 and sits seven shots behind the leader after two rounds.
Joining an Exclusive PGA Tour Club
Kim’s 59 is the 15th score under 60 in PGA Tour history and the fourth since 2024, highlighting the growing list of exceptional scoring performances in recent seasons.
The most recent sub-60 round before Kim’s came from Jake Knapp, who shot 59 during the opening round of the 2025 Cognizant Classic. The PGA Tour’s all-time record remains 58, achieved by Jim Furyk at the 2016 Travelers Championship.
Staying Focused on the Weekend
Despite making history, Kim remained focused on the task ahead.
“Today was an awesome day, but I’m only halfway there. I still need to stay focused for the weekend,” Kim said after his round.
His historic finish even interrupted Ben Kohles’ post-round interview as cheers erupted around the course following Kim’s final birdie.
Kohles reacted with a smile, saying, “That’s amazing. There’s a 59. I guess my 62 wasn’t quite as special.”
Confident Approach Pays Off
Kim said he resisted the temptation to play cautiously on the closing holes, even with water hazards protecting the final two holes.
Instead, he chose an aggressive strategy, believing it was the right opportunity to create a memorable moment in PGA Tour history.
With two rounds remaining, Kim will look to build on his historic performance and capture the 3M Open title while maintaining the form that produced one of golf’s rarest achievements.
