Full Breakdown
Michael Kim’s Historic 59 Propels Him to the Lead at the 3M Open
7/25/2026, 2:42:41 AM
Core Event
On Friday, July 24, 2026, Michael Kim posted a 12-under-par 59 at the 3M Open, held at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota. The round was bogey-free and finished with birdies on the final four holes, including a 24-foot putt on 18 to finish at 14-under for the tournament. The score moved Kim from a three-shot deficit after Thursday’s 69 to a three-shot lead heading into the third round.
Background & Context
Kim had missed cuts at the British Open, the Scottish Open, and the John Deere Classic before finishing second at the Valero Texas Open in April. A 59 is an exceptionally rare achievement on the PGA Tour; Kim’s round became the 15th sub-60 round in Tour history. The most recent 59 before Kim’s was recorded the day before, when Scott Stevens shot a 59 at the Osprey Valley Open on July 23, 2026.
Timeline
- July 23, 2026 – Scott Stevens records a 59 at the Osprey Valley Open (PGA Tour Americas).
- July 24, 2026 – Michael Kim shoots a 59 in the second round of the 3M Open, taking a three-shot lead.
- July 25–26, 2026 – Third and fourth rounds of the 3M Open are scheduled.
Data & Statistics
- Score: 59 (12-under) – 14-under for the tournament.
- Birdies: 12 (including a run of five from holes 3-7).
- Putts: 21 total; 24-foot birdie putt on 18.
- Strokes Gained – Putting: 6.4.
- FedEx Cup Impact: Jumped from 65th to 38th in the standings.
- Course Record: Kim’s 59 broke the previous TPC Twin Cities record of 60.
Official Statements & Responses
Kim called the round “awesome” and said he needed to stay focused for the weekend, avoiding a “too protective” mindset on the water-guarded holes 17 and 18. He cautioned against getting ahead of himself and emphasized staying level-headed.
Why It Matters
Kim’s 59 places him among a select group of golfers who have broken 60, a feat achieved only 16 times in PGA Tour history. The performance gave him a three-shot lead, a strong position for the $8.8 million purse and a significant FedEx Cup points boost.
What’s Next
The third round of the 3M Open is set for July 25, 2026, with world-number-one Scottie Scheffler slated to tee off later in the day. Kim will aim to maintain composure and defend his lead through the final day.
