2026 Rocket Classic leaderboard: Peter Malnati threatens to break 60 with Rickie Fowler chasing — SkimNews
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- Peter Malnati shot 9-under 61 at the 2026 Rocket Classic, recording seven birdies in his first nine holes and nearly becoming the latest PGA Tour player to break 60
- Rickie Fowler posted a 7-under 63, staying in contention with six birdies and an eagle, while entering the week at No. 32 in the FedEx Cup and needing a strong finish to reach the Tour Championship
- Ryan Gerard matched Fowler at 7 under, building on his recent top-10 finish at The Open and positioning himself for a deep playoff run from No. 70 in the standings
- Malnati acknowledged the course’s increased difficulty after redesign but credited soft conditions and sharp execution, noting he took only 11 putts on his front nine
- Keegan Bradley, Xander Schauffele, and Patrick Cantlay all finished Round 1 at 6 under or better, placing them within striking distance despite not being among the pre-tournament favorites
- Jackson Koivun, last week’s 3M Open winner, opened with a 69, drawing praise from Bradley and keeping his slim Presidents Cup hopes alive despite ranking No. 70 in the FedEx Cup
Why it matters: Malnati’s lead could lift him from No. 170 to No. 68 in the FedEx Cup with a win, securing his Tour card and postseason eligibility, while Fowler’s position at No. 32 means even a top-5 finish may not guarantee a Tour Championship berth, making every stroke critical in the final stretch.
Ask SkimNews
