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Chris Kirk's Hole-in-One Secures Lead at PGA St. Jude Championship

Posted : 16 August 2024

Chris Kirk made a spectacular hole-in-one on the par-3 14th hole during the first round of the PGA St. Jude Championship, securing a one-stroke lead. The 39-year-old American, who is pursuing his seventh PGA Tour victory, shot a six-under-par 64 at TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee, marking the beginning of the FedEx Cup playoffs. The ace was the highlight of a strong round that set Kirk apart from his competitors on a challenging day.

 

Kirk’s closest competitors include Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, Canada’s Taylor Pendrith, and France’s Matthieu Pavon, all of whom shot 65 to share second place. Matsuyama faced an unusual situation coming into the tournament as his regular caddie and coach were unable to join him due to a robbery in London, where they lost their passports and visas. Despite these challenges, Matsuyama managed to maintain his focus and deliver an impressive performance, matching the efforts of Pendrith and Pavon.

 

Reflecting on his impressive shot on the 14th, Kirk described his approach with a 6-iron from 205 yards, aiming for the left side of the hole. “I was just trying to hit it left of the hole and make a three,” Kirk explained. “Didn't quite come off where I was looking. I was like, 'Oh my God.' Just trying to hit it in the middle of the green. I was just swinging really good, and the ball sensed it, just found its way in the right direction." This was the fourth hole-in-one of his PGA career, giving him a three-stroke lead before a bogey on the final hole reduced his advantage.

 

Meanwhile, Matsuyama recounted the London incident, emphasizing that the loss of his wallet was minor compared to the disruption faced by his caddie and coach. “It was an unfortunate situation,” Matsuyama said. “Luckily, I only lost my wallet. We're pushing hard, looking toward East Lake. Shota will make it, I think, but my coach probably won't." Despite these setbacks, Matsuyama remains optimistic, praising his temporary caddie Taiga Tabuchi for stepping up and ensuring a seamless transition. As the tournament progresses, both Kirk and Matsuyama aim to maintain their momentum and achieve success in the FedEx Cup playoffs.

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