Jake Knapp Breaks Rocket Classic Course Record, Trails Leaders by Three Strokes

Jake Knapp made PGA Tour history at the Rocket Classic by shooting an 11-under 61 in the second round at Detroit Golf Club, breaking a course record set less than a day earlier and becoming the first player this season to shoot both under 60 and 61 or lower. Despite this remarkable round featuring nine birdies and an eagle without a bogey, Knapp was still three shots off the lead entering the weekend, trailing players like Chris Kirk, Philip Knowles, and Andrew Putnam. Knapp, ranked No. 99 in the world, previously shot a bogey-free 59 at the Cognizant Classic earlier this year, making him one of only 15 players in PGA Tour history to post a sub-60 round. The Rocket Classic has seen unprecedented scoring, with Potgieter and Kevin Roy each shooting 62 in the first round and Min Woo Lee matching the old course record of 63. Knapp attributed his extraordinary round to a bounce-back after a disappointing first day and a strong mental edge, saying he was even thinking about matching his 59 during the round. His consistent low scoring and ability to break course records highlight his rise as a serious contender on the PGA Tour this season.