In a dazzling display of skill and composure, Hayden Springer etched his name into the annals of PGA Tour history by posting a 12-under 59 during the first round of the John Deere Classic. This remarkable feat marks only the 14th sub-60 round ever recorded on the tour.

Springer’s round began with a promising eagle on the par-5 second hole, followed by a scorching series of six birdies across the next seven holes, setting a new tournament record with a front nine score of 27 at the TPC Deere Run. As the round progressed, his momentum seemed to wane with six consecutive pars, potentially stalling his march towards history.

However, Springer’s resilience shone through as he rallied with a stunning finish. On the par-5 17th, he holed out for eagle from 55 yards, reigniting his bid for a sub-60 round. The defining moment came at the 18th hole, where he sank a 12-foot birdie putt, cementing his place in the record books with an emphatic fist pump.

Springer’s achievement draws parallels with the legendary 59 posted by Paul Goydos at the same venue in 2010. Both rounds benefited from the rain-softened conditions, allowing players to employ lift-clean-and-place rules. Yet, unlike Goydos, who made his mark on the back nine, Springer dominated the front.

This season has seen an extraordinary run of low scores, with Cameron Young also shooting a 59 at the Travelers Championship just three weeks prior. The record for the lowest round in PGA Tour history remains Jim Furyk’s 58 at the 2016 Travelers Championship, a milestone of golfing excellence.

Springer’s round joins an exclusive club of 13 other players who have carded a 59, showcasing the pinnacle of precision and pressure-handling in the sport. His performance not only sets the pace for the John Deere Classic but also underscores the thrilling unpredictability and excitement that golf can deliver.

As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on Springer to see if he can sustain this extraordinary level of play. His historic round has undoubtedly set a high bar and added a significant chapter to the rich tapestry of PGA Tour lore.

Sub-60 Rounds in PGA Tour History:

58 on Tour

Jim FurykScore: 27-31

Course: TPC River Highlands (par 70)

Event: 2016 Travelers Championship

Round: Final

Finish: T5

Comment: One eagle, 10 birdies. Hole-out eagle on the par-4 third hole. Made seven consecutive birdies on Nos. 6-12.

59s on Tour

Hayden SpringerScore: 27-32

Course: TPC Deere Run

Event: 2024 John Deere Classic

Round: First

Finish: TBD

Comment: Holed out from 55 yards on No. 17 to give himself a chance, then buried a 12-foot birdie putt on the final hole.

Cameron YoungScore: 28-31

Course: TPC River Highlands

Event: 2024 Travelers Championship