Hayden Springer shoots 59 in the opening round of PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic
Hayden Springer has shot a 59 in the opening round of the John Deere Classic. It's just the 14th time in PGA Tour history that someone has scored less than 60 in a single round. Springer is now the early leader of the tournament and in really good shape to capture a win before the Open Championship next week.
His impressive putt in the video above was met with resounding cheers. It helped Springer fire an opening round -12. That's one of the most impressive first rounds anyone has had in a while on the tour, and it has him four strokes up on Harry Hall, who had a very good round as well, at the time of writing.
There are still three full rounds to go and plenty of talented golfers who could challenge Springer at the John Deere Classic, but it's virtually impossible to dream up a stronger start. If he wins Sunday evening, his opener will be a big reason for that.
Hayden Springer tied quite a few records with impressive 59
Hayden Springer was one stroke shy of the tour record. A total of 13 players, Springer included, have shot 59 in a round in PGA Tour history. Just one player, Jim Furyk, has shot 58. He also has a round of 59 to his name.
The John Deere Classic record is 59, and Springer only tied it. In 2010, Paul Gaydos shot 59 and set the record at TPC Deere Run. Had he broken it, he would have tied the tour record. The worldwide record for 2024 is a 57 shot by Cristobal del Solar on the Korn Ferry Tour.
Springer is the second player to achieve a sub-60 round in the last three weeks. Cameron Young shot 59 at the Travelers Championship, though he couldn't keep it going and did not win. Springer will try to avoid his result.
The golfer shot 27 on the first nine, giving him a tremendous shot at breaking 60 with his final score. After five pars in a row, though, his chances seemed to fade. He picked it up with a birdie on the 15th and 17th.
The first nine score also tied the opening nine record at TPC Deere Run. Since 1983, this is only the 14th nine-hole score of 27 or better on the tour. Corey Pavin shot 26 in the front nine at the 2006 U.S. Bank Championship to set the record.
Springer made six birdies and an eagle during his first nine holes. He was in rare form, as a -8 would be tied for the lead and that was his score halfway through the day. It was one of the most impressive showings in recent memory.