Photo: Aaron Doster ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
DETROIT, June 27, 2025 ~ Day two of the 2025 Rocket Classic delivered fireworks at Detroit Golf Club, with Jake Knapp putting his name into the tournament’s history books. The 29-year-old American fired an electrifying 11-under-par 61, setting a new course record and vaulting himself into contention heading into the weekend. Knapp’s round was a masterclass in precision and poise, featuring nine birdies and an eagle, and surpassing the previous record of 62 set just a day earlier by Kevin Roy and Aldrich Potgieter.
The scoring conditions remained ideal Friday, with light winds and soft greens allowing players to go low. Knapp took full advantage, starting hot with birdies on three of his first four holes and never letting up. His eagle on the par-5 14th was the highlight of the round, where a towering second shot left him a short putt to cap off a back-nine 30.
NBC Sports commentator Mike Tirico told WJR’s Mark Hollis, “It’s a different vibe for a tournament. If you think back to the two-weeks-ago U.S. Open, seeing a birdie felt like Christmas for these guys. And now, you’re seeing players make eight or nine birdies in a round this week.”
PODCAST:
June 27, 2025 ~ 760 WJR’s Mark Hollis sits down with broadcasting legend Mike Tirico at the Rocket Classic for a wide-ranging conversation on Detroit’s sports resurgence, the unique energy of the tournament, and what makes this city stand out on the national stage. Tirico brings decades of perspective, local roots, and a deep appreciation for the people and stories that define the game. It’s a smart, timely look at where Detroit sports—and the PGA Tour—are headed next.
(CONTINUED) The Detroit crowd, braving muggy conditions and temperatures in the 90s, was treated to a showcase of elite shot-making. Fans followed Knapp’s group in growing numbers as word of his hot round spread across the course. The atmosphere was electric, especially as he approached the 18th green with a chance to break the record — which he did with a confident birdie putt.
Meanwhile, overnight co-leaders Roy and Potgieter cooled off slightly but remained in the hunt. Roy carded a steady 68 to stay near the top, while Potgieter stumbled with a few bogeys on the back nine, finishing with a 70.
As the cut line settled around four under, several big names found themselves heading home early, including past champion Rickie Fowler. But for those remaining, the stage is set for a dramatic weekend. With Knapp’s record-setting performance lighting the fuse, all eyes will be on the Detroit Golf Club to see who can rise to the occasion.
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