A sudden withdrawal transformed one golfer’s day into an unusual solo test, but the quiet round soon became a spectacular comeback.
Cameron Young made a rapid climb up the Tour Championship leaderboard after playing an unusual solo round at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta. The American finished Friday with an 8-under-par 62, jumping from last place, 29th, to the top of the leaderboard.
As informed by CNN
The highlight of the day was an eagle on the 18th hole. Young sank a putt from around 42 feet, with the ball catching the back edge of the cup before dropping in. The golfer took off his hat and shook hands with his caddie, but there was no one else to celebrate with – he had played the entire round alone.
Young was given the earliest tee time after shooting even par on Thursday. His playing partner, J.J. Spaun, withdrew after six holes because of shoulder pain.
It’s a little strange. I’d never done it before. When you get used to only one player being announced on the first tee, it feels more like a practice round. We often play practice rounds with just the caddie and me. Especially when you’re playing well, it’s very easy to keep going.
– Cameron Young, after the round
Seven birdies and an eagle on the final hole
Young made seven birdies over his first 11 holes. His only setback was a bogey on the par-four 12th. As the round went on, new fans gradually joined the small group of spectators, and after his decisive shot on the 18th, applause echoed across the course.
According to Young, the solo round allowed him to play at a comfortable pace, without having to wait for opponents or rush. The format was unusual but useful after several difficult weeks, during which he finished well out of contention for top places in three consecutive tournaments.
Psychologically, playing well fixes almost everything. Playing alone feels strange at first, but then you don’t have to wait for anyone or rush anywhere. You can do everything at your own pace all day, so in that sense, it’s easy.
– Cameron Young
Earlier in the season, Young won the Players Championship and the Cadillac Championship, while also recording six top-10 finishes. Among his best results were second place at The Open Championship and third place at the Masters.
After his 62, Young briefly became the sole leader of the Tour Championship. He expected his rivals to quickly match his score, and that is exactly what happened: other players also reached 8 under par in the second round. Still, his brilliant performance put Cameron Young back in contention for the top spots on the leaderboard.