Michael Kim ripped off a 12-under 59 on Friday at TPC Twin Cities, seizing the lead at the 2026 3M Open. This wasn’t just another great round, this was golf history, clocking in as the 16th sub-60 score ever on the PGA Tour. Kim’s performance was unbelievable, especially considering he’d missed the cut in his last three starts.
Golf’s Magic Number
Talk about catching fire. Kim started his second round with a couple of pars, but then exploded with five straight birdies from holes No. 3 through No. 7. He added another on the 9th, turning in a scorching 29. The back nine initially slowed, with just two birdies through the first five holes, making a 59 seem out of reach. But then, Kim went on an absolute tear, hitting four consecutive birdies from No. 15 to No. 18. Needing that “magic number” on the final hole, he buried a massive 24-foot putt for the closing birdie, fist-pumping like he knew exactly what he’d just pulled off. His iron play was clutch, gaining over 3.7 shots on the field, and his putting? Unbelievable. He rolled in more than 145 feet of putts, picking up nearly 6.6 strokes with the putter.
From Bubble to Breakthrough
This 59 isn’t just a number, it’s a lifeline. Kim is the first player to shoot 59 this season and the first since Jake Knapp did it at the Cognizant Classic last year. He’s also the first guy to ever break 60 at TPC Twin Cities. More importantly, this was a desperately needed big week for Kim, who was sitting 65th in the FedEx Cup standings, dangerously close to the playoff bubble. A win here would vault him all the way to 35th. After his historic round, Kim holds a three-shot lead, with the afternoon wave still to finish their rounds in Minnesota. It’s a huge turning point, and all eyes are on him now.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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