Tiger Woods' Tournament Takes Surprising Turn as Winless Pros Lead the Pack

Tiger Woods' Tournament Takes Surprising Turn as Winless Pros Lead the Pack

By Michael Thompson

February 16, 2025 at 04:27 AM

Patrick Rodgers leads the Genesis Invitational by one stroke over Denny McCarthy after 54 holes, setting up an intriguing final round at Torrey Pines. Both players are seeking their first PGA Tour victory.

Rodgers, the former Stanford standout and world's top-ranked amateur, shot a four-under 68 on Saturday with impressive precision - hitting 11 of 14 fairways and 14 of 18 greens. McCarthy, known for his exceptional putting skills, stayed in contention with a steady 71.

![Denny McCarthy hits his tee shot on Saturday on the 15th hole at Torrey Pines.](Getty Images)

Notable stars like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler struggled in round three. McIlroy lost 3.9 strokes on the greens, while Scheffler posted his worst score (76) since the 2022 Players Championship. Both are tied for eighth.

Tournament host Tiger Woods is expected to attend Sunday's final round, just days after his mother's passing, adding extra significance to what could be a breakthrough victory for either Rodgers or McCarthy.

"I'm trying to play from a perspective that feels fresh and new and exciting and full of opportunity," said Rodgers, addressing his previous close calls. "Instead of playing with a lot of expectation, I need to play to achieve."

Close behind are proven winners Ludvig Aberg, Tony Finau, and Patrick Cantlay, while McIlroy and Scheffler remain within striking distance despite their Saturday struggles.

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