American golfer Michael Kim has secured his place in the record books after delivering a sensational 12-under-par round of 59 during the second day of the 3M Open in Minnesota. The exceptional performance, which included 12 birdies and no bogeys, positions the 33-year-old in a strong three-shot lead over fellow American Ben Kohles at the TPC Twin Cities course in Blaine.
Kim's historic achievement marks only the 16th time a sub-60 score has been recorded on the US PGA Tour, making him the 15th individual golfer to reach this rare milestone. The Seoul-born player's round culminated in a dramatic fashion, draining a 24-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, following a remarkable run of four consecutive birdies to close out his round. His triumphant reaction, raising both arms and then unleashing a fist-pump, underscored the significance of the moment.
Reflecting on his memorable round, Kim expressed his delight at being "part of the history books." He revealed his mindset on the final hole, stating, "I kind of remember thinking on 18 that you have to go for it, 60 or 61 doesn't really make too much of a difference." His previous personal best round was a 62, making this a significant improvement.
The incredible sequence of play saw Kim make five consecutive birdies from the third through the seventh holes, beginning with an 11-foot putt on the third. He continued to build momentum with a 12-foot birdie on the par-three fourth, a close-range putt after an approach within five feet at the fifth, a 10-foot birdie at the sixth, and a two-footer at the seventh. Further birdies at the ninth, tenth, and twelfth holes preceded his closing burst of four consecutive birdies from the 15th.
Kim’s strong finish included a 12-foot birdie at the 15th, a 13-foot putt at the 16th, and a 17-foot birdie on the par-three 17th, setting the stage for his memorable final putt. His strategic approach to the closing holes, despite the water hazards, demonstrated his determination to achieve the historic score rather than playing cautiously.