Kurt Kitayama delivered an outstanding performance at the recent 3M Open, earning a one-stroke victory and claiming his second PGA Tour title. Over the final two rounds, Kitayama made an impressive 20 birdies, setting a record that even World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and other top PGA Tour players have struggled to achieve in the past twenty years.
Kitayama’s remarkable weekend feat was highlighted by the PGA Tour on its social media channels, showcasing the rarity and significance of his birdie record. Meanwhile, Scheffler, fresh off his fourth major win at the Open Championship, chose to skip the 3M Open during a brief break, allowing Kitayama to seize the spotlight after not competing in the Open Championship himself.
Kurt Kitayama’s Record-Breaking Rounds at the 3M Open
On Saturday, July 26, Kitayama began the third round on the first tee with a birdie and quickly gained momentum by sinking five consecutive birdies between holes three and seven, adding another on the ninth hole. Despite a bogey at the 17th, he finished the day with a stunning 11-under 60, boosted by five more birdies on the back nine.
The final round saw Kitayama maintain his aggressive play, starting with three birdies in the first three holes and adding three more before the turn. Though he added two bogeys on the back nine, two additional birdies helped secure a 6-under 65, completing his weekend total of 20 birdies and cementing his win.
Emotional Victory Shared with Brother Daniel Kitayama
A deeply meaningful aspect of Kitayama’s triumph was the support of his older brother Daniel, who was on the bag throughout the event. Reflecting on the win during the post-round press conference, Kitayama shared:
“This win’s going to be extra special having him (Daniel Kitayama) on the bag. Very cool experience and really happy he’s part of it.”
—Kurt Kitayama, PGA Tour Winner
The presence of his brother added a personal dimension to the victory, highlighting the teamwork behind Kitayama’s success.
A Season of Ups and Downs Leading to Breakthrough
This season, Kitayama showed flashes of brilliance alongside moments of difficulty. He missed cuts at the Farmers Insurance Open, Mexico Open, and the Cognizant Classic but bounced back with strong performances. Notably, he tied for fifth at both the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and the John Deere Classic. Other solid finishes included tied 14th at the Barracuda Championship and 33rd place at The Players Championship.
Kitayama’s 3M Open victory, supported by his recent form, marks a significant milestone in his career, potentially shifting momentum as he challenges leading competitors like Scottie Scheffler in future PGA Tour events.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What was Scottie Scheffler upset about?
A. The PGA of America chose not to permit “preferred lies,” meaning players have to play the ball where it lands. Scheffler voiced his disappointment, saying mud on the ball adds unpredictability.
Q. What did Rory McIlroy say about Scottie Scheffler?
A. After winning the Green Jacket, he confessed that he cried a lot that morning because he felt extremely stressed and unsure of himself. He told Meredith that he didn’t think he was prepared for it.