Thomas Makes History at TPC Sawgrass

Justin Thomas delivered a stunning 10-under-par 62 on Friday at The Players Championship, equaling the Sawgrass course record and achieving the largest first-to-second round improvement (+16) in tournament history.

Notable Achievements:
 First player to record 11 birdies in a single round at the event
 Climbed 104 spots on the leaderboard
 Now sits at -4 overall, just seven shots behind the leaders

Despite a late bogey on 18, Thomas’ miraculous round keeps him in contention for the weekend.

 McIlroy Stays in the Hunt at -9

Rory McIlroy carded a solid 4-under 68, bringing him to 9-under for the tournament—just two strokes behind co-leaders Min Woo Lee and Akshay Bhatia (-11).

McIlroy’s Stats:
Second-lowest 36-hole score at TPC Sawgrass
Chasing a second Players Championship title (2019 winner)

Collin Morikawa (-9) also surged with a 65, while England’s Tommy Fleetwood (-7) is in the mix after a 66.

 Windy Weekend Ahead – Who Will Handle It Best?

The scoring-friendly conditions of Friday are set to change dramatically, with 30mph wind gusts expected for Saturday and Sunday.

“This course is challenging enough, but I’m excited for the challenge,” McIlroy said. “Controlling ball flight and creativity will be key.”

What’s Next?

Round 3 Tee Times: Saturday, 16 March
Live Coverage: BBC Sport, Sky Sports, & PGA Tour Live

With McIlroy, Thomas, and other top contenders heading into a high-stakes weekend, who will rise to the challenge at Sawgrass?

Key Takeaways:

✅ Justin Thomas shoots 10-under 62, tying Sawgrass course record
✅ Rory McIlroy sits two shots off the lead at -9
✅ Min Woo Lee & Akshay Bhatia lead at -11
✅ Weekend conditions set to bring high winds & tougher play