Hideki Matsuyama surged to the top of the leaderboard at The Sentry tournament in Kapalua, Hawaii, with a stellar 8-under-par 65 on Friday. The 2021 Masters champion, who has struggled with injuries in the past, seemed to have shaken off any lingering issues.
Matsuyama's round featured a remarkable streak of three consecutive birdies from the fourth hole, followed by another birdie on the par-3 eighth. He then added four more birdies on the back nine, including a 35-foot putt on the 11th. Matsuyama now sits at 16-under after two rounds, with a one-stroke lead over Collin Morikawa.
The day was marked by ideal scoring conditions, as the usual wind was notably absent, making it a low-scoring affair on the Plantation Course. Only two players posted scores over par, which led to an exciting and competitive environment.
Morikawa, a California native whose grandparents are from nearby Lahaina, made his presence felt with a solid 65 to remain within striking distance of the lead. His back nine was especially impressive, with five straight birdies starting at the 13th hole, a streak he credited to his familiarity with the course and a solid execution of his shots.
Morikawa, who was pleased with his performance, explained that he knew the course could provide opportunities for birdies at any moment. His ability to stay focused and patient helped him capitalize on the birdie chances he encountered.
With the game's rhythm and confidence solidified, Morikawa expressed that it was simply about playing his game and taking advantage of the opportunities that came his way. As the weekend approaches, he is primed for a strong push at the title.
Several other players are also in contention, including Canadian Corey Conners, American Maverick McNealy, and overnight leader Tom Hoge, who slipped after shooting a 68. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley posted a 64, highlighted by a stunning 29-foot eagle putt on the 18th.
Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, also sits at 13-under after a 64, with seven birdies on the back nine. Despite the low scoring, Clark acknowledged the difficulty of the course and the challenge it presents when the wind is absent. He expressed hopes of breaking his personal best score of 20-under this week.
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