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Novak Surges to Mexico Open Lead
31 Oct
Summary
- Andrew Novak shot 10-under-par 61 to lead the tournament.
- Novak was 5-under-par over the final six holes.
- A win would move Novak from No. 89 to a projected No. 53 in FedEx Cup points.
Andrew Novak seized the lead at the Vidanta World Mexico Open in Vallarta, Mexico, by playing exceptionally well over the final six holes on Friday. He carded a stellar 10-under-par 61, which is the best round of the tournament thus far, bringing his total score to 14-under 128. This remarkable performance gives him a three-shot advantage over his closest competitors.
Novak's exceptional play included an eagle on the par-4 13th hole and birdies on holes 15, 16, and 18, securing his commanding position. This strong showing is crucial for his season, as he entered the tournament ranked 89th in the FedEx Cup Fall standings. A win would propel him to a projected 53rd, ensuring full tour status for the following season and potentially granting access to high-profile events.
Other notable performances include amateur Kihei Akina, Ben Griffin, France's Matthieu Pavon, Belgium's Adrien Dumont de Chassart, and Japan's Kensei Hirata, all trailing Novak by three strokes. First-round leader Karl Vilips, however, struggled after his initial success, dropping back to 6-under. Several prominent players, including Tony Finau and Wyndham Clark, are currently projected to miss the cut.
