Rory McIlroy is facing a challenging final round at the Genesis Invitational after a tough day on the greens left him six shots behind the leader, Jacob Bridgeman. Bridgeman, playing the iconic Riviera Country Club for the first time, delivered an impressive seven-under 64, putting him at 19 under and in a strong position to challenge the longstanding 72-hole aggregate scoring record on the PGA Tour.
Bridgeman's performance was a masterclass in precision, with 12 approaches setting up birdie or eagle putts inside 12 feet. His round included an eagle and seven birdies, leaving him just a shot shy of Lanny Wadkins' 20-under record set in 1985. Despite the pressure of playing alongside five-time Major champion McIlroy, Bridgeman remains unfazed, having already experienced a round with him at the BMW Championship last year.
McIlroy, meanwhile, had a mixed day. His 69 was marred by 35 putts, and he found the greens particularly tricky, especially as they sped up later in the day.
"I was hitting good shots," McIlroy said, expressing frustration over the defensive nature of his putts. He knows he needs something special to catch Bridgeman but is optimistic about being in the final group, giving him a chance to apply pressure directly.
Bridgeman's confidence is evident as he eyes the $4 million prize, though he knows McIlroy will push him. "I know he's going to play well tomorrow," Bridgeman acknowledged, understanding the challenge ahead.
McIlroy, fresh off a Masters win, is eager to add a victory at Riviera to his resume, alongside dreams of triumphs at other iconic venues like Memorial. "I'd love to win here," he stated, ready to give his all in the final round.
Elsewhere, Shane Lowry is tied for 32nd at three under after a late stumble in his round, while world number one Jeeno Thitikul celebrated a home victory at the Honda LPGA Thailand, finishing at 24-under-par. Leona Maguire started her season with a tie for 32nd, closing with a level par 72.
As the final round approaches, all eyes are on Bridgeman and McIlroy, promising a thrilling conclusion to the Genesis Invitational.