AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — When Max Homa reflects on the mental challenge of performing well alongside Tiger Woods for 36 holes at the Masters, he sees it as a significant feat that can translate to success across the golfing spectrum, potentially leading to his inaugural major championship victory.
Heading into Saturday’s third round at Augusta National, Homa finds himself tied at 6-under 138 with top-ranked Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau.
Despite boasting six PGA Tour wins and another triumph on the European tour, the 33-year-old Homa’s major championship track record is relatively modest. His highest finish came with a tie for 10th place at the British Open last year, an event where victory seemed out of reach.
After finishing his first round with a 67 on Friday morning, trailing DeChambeau by two shots, Homa experienced a notable first by being in the top five after a major round. His resilient second-round 71 in challenging conditions later in the day propelled him to a share of the lead.
Should he sustain his current form for the next 36 holes, Homa stands a chance to secure his maiden major title and enhance his position in the sport.
Reflecting on his performance, Homa remarked, “I feel like I showed a bit of moxie the last couple days, especially yesterday the first few holes playing with Tiger in front of a lot of people at the Masters. And I played some great golf. So I know I have that one in me. I’d like to see if I have the mental discipline for a whole week.”
Maintaining a composed and introspective demeanor, Homa, who diligently journals his thoughts, aims to stay grounded amidst the tournament’s intensity.
Drawing inspiration from the movie “Hoosiers,” Homa emphasized the constant nature of the game, likening it to the familiar challenge of hitting a golf ball into a standard-sized hole.
Homa is not the sole contender eyeing a transformative triumph. Alongside him are four players within four shots of the lead, all vying for their first major victory.
Among them, Denmark’s Nicolai Hojgaard sits at 4 under, Australia’s Cameron Davis at 3 under, and Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg at 2 under. The prospect of a breakthrough on golf’s grandest stage remains uncertain for these contenders.
Aberg, aiming to emulate Fuzzy Zoeller as the last Masters rookie to claim victory 45 years ago, leans on experienced caddie Joe Skovron for guidance while relishing his inaugural Masters appearance.
As the competition unfolds, seasoned players like Cameron Young and Tommy Fleetwood, ranked within the top 14 globally, linger at 1 under, anticipating the unique challenges of the prestigious event.
With the tournament poised for a shift in dynamics, Homa emphasized the transition to a heightened tournament mindset once on the course, while Aberg highlighted the importance of savoring the experience between shots.
Amidst the competitive atmosphere, Davis, accompanied by his family, remains focused on his game, aware of the scoreboard’s implications.
Meanwhile, Xander Schauffele, a consistent top performer in major tournaments, finds himself at even par after 36 holes, trailing by six shots.
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