Matsuyama and McCarthy Lead in FedEx St Jude Championship
- Hideki Matsuyama and Denny McCarthy are tied for the lead in the FedEx St Jude Championship in Memphis.
- Both golfers have performed well over the first two rounds, showcasing their skills on the course.
- The competition is intense as they head into the final rounds to determine the winner.
Hideki Matsuyama and Denny McCarthy showcased impressive performances at the FedEx St Jude Championship, taking the halfway lead at TPC Southwind in Memphis. Matsuyama, competing without his regular caddy and coach due to a passport theft in London, rebounded from an early setback on the fourth hole to shoot a 64. McCarthy outperformed him with a 63, highlighted by three birdie putts from over 25 feet, bringing their total to 11-under par. Sam Burns trails closely behind after an impressive front nine of 29, finishing the day at 10-under par. World number one Scottie Scheffler, who carded a 65, remains in contention at nine-under, one stroke ahead of Justin Rose and Nick Dunlap. Scheffler expressed satisfaction with his clean scorecard, noting the importance of maintaining momentum throughout his round. Defending FedEx Cup champion Viktor Hovland made significant strides, moving into a qualifying position for the BMW Championship with a 63, bringing him to seven-under par. Hovland discussed his recent swing adjustments, emphasizing the learning process involved in refining his technique. Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre matched Hovland’s score, while English golfers Matt Fitzpatrick and Aaron Rai sit two shots back. In contrast, Rory McIlroy struggled with a second-round 73, leaving him 12 shots off the lead, while Jordan Spieth faced difficulties with two double bogeys, finishing with a 75 and risking missing the cut for the next event.