Full Breakdown
2026 American Express: A Dramatic 54-Hole Cut
1/25/2026, 11:41:03 AM
Overview of the Tournament
The 2026 American Express, held in La Quinta, California, features a unique format where the cut is made after 54 holes, rather than the traditional 36. This year, the tournament has seen a mix of established players and rising stars, with significant implications for those who failed to make the cut.
Key Developments and Leaderboard
As of January 24, 2026, Si Woo Kim leads the tournament at 22 under par, following a strong performance that included a round of 66 on Saturday. He is closely pursued by World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and 18-year-old Blades Brown, both at 21 under. The cut line was set at 11 under, resulting in the elimination of notable players such as Justin Rose, Tony Finau, and defending champion Sepp Straka.
Blades Brown made headlines by setting a course record with a 60 during the second round, narrowly missing a birdie putt that would have given him a historic 59. His performance has drawn attention, especially given his recent transition from high school to professional golf.
Notable Player Performances
- Si Woo Kim: The 2021 champion is aiming for his second title at this event and has shown consistent form throughout the tournament.
- Scottie Scheffler: The World No. 1 has maintained a strong position, carding a bogey-free 64 in the second round and continuing to perform well in the third round.
- Blades Brown: The young golfer's impressive play has made him a contender, showcasing his potential on the PGA Tour.
- Justin Rose: Despite a strong second round of 63, Rose struggled in the third round, finishing at 8 under and missing the cut by three strokes. His performance was marred by a double bogey on the 17th hole, which ultimately sealed his fate.
- Tony Finau: After two solid rounds, Finau's third-round score of 71 left him at 9 under, missing the cut by two strokes.
Criticism & Opposition
The unique cut format has drawn mixed reactions. Some players and analysts argue that it adds excitement and intensity to the tournament, while others believe it places undue pressure on competitors, particularly those who are not accustomed to such high-stakes situations.
Official Statements & Responses
Tournament officials have emphasized the excitement generated by the 54-hole cut, stating that it creates a dynamic environment for both players and fans. They noted that the format encourages aggressive play, which can lead to thrilling finishes.
What's Next
As the tournament progresses to its final round, all eyes will be on Si Woo Kim, Scottie Scheffler, and Blades Brown as they vie for the title. The final round will take place on the Pete Dye Stadium Course, where the remaining competitors will battle for a share of the $9.2 million purse.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m so stoked,” said Blades Brown after his record-setting round. “We’re going to see what happens.” — Blades Brown, Professional Golfer
- “I didn’t get off to the start I would have hoped to get off to today,” — Scottie Scheffler, World No. 1
- “It was a good day,” — Eric Cole, Professional Golfer
The 2026 American Express continues to unfold with high drama and competitive spirit, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion.
