Scheffler seizes control of FedExCup Playoffs opener with 61
The PGA Tour’s playoff structure tightens as Scottie Scheffler moves to 11 under par, while Rory McIlroy falls 15 shots adrift in the opening event.
World number one Scottie Scheffler has taken command of the FedEx St Jude Championship, shooting a nine-under 61 in the second round to establish a three-shot lead at 11 under par. The victory in this opening event of the PGA Tour’s FedExCup Playoffs is critical, as winners of the first two playoff tournaments earn 750 points, a value equivalent to that of The Players Championship or a major title.
Scheffler’s performance marked a significant turnaround from his opening round in Memphis, where he admitted his patience was tested after recording 33 putts and missing opportunities. In contrast, his second round featured 54 feet of putts, including birdies on six of his first seven holes and three consecutive birdies to close the round. He described the day as one where he successfully capitalised on his chances after a difficult start.
Conversely, Rory McIlroy’s campaign has faltered, with the Northern Irishman finishing the second round at four over par. McIlroy bogeyed the 17th and 18th holes, leaving him 15 shots behind Scheffler. He remains well adrift after an opening day that saw him start at four over par, highlighting the steep challenge posed by the field in this high-stakes environment.
The tournament’s elimination format adds pressure to every round, as only the top 70 players in the standings qualified for the FedEx St Jude Championship. The top 50 will progress to the BMW Championship, while only the top 30 will advance to the finale, The Tour Championship. The winner of the Tour Championship will be crowned the 2026 FedExCup champion, securing a $10 million prize and a five-year PGA Tour exemption.
Compounding the competitive field, Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre withdrew from the event citing a knee injury. MacIntyre had endured a difficult opening round, sitting on 12 over par before his exit. The third round of the FedEx St Jude Championship is scheduled to commence at 4pm on Saturday, with live coverage available on Sky Sports Golf and Sky Sports Main Event.
