In an exciting display of skill, Thomas Detry nearly achieved a hole-in-one on the challenging par-3 16th hole, ultimately shooting a remarkable 7-under 64 in the second round of the Phoenix Open on Friday. This stellar performance propelled him to a two-shot lead in the tournament held at TPC Scottsdale, under the backdrop of ideal playing conditions.
Detry’s round was highlighted by an impressive eight birdies, with only one bogey, bringing his total score to an impressive 12 under par. Following closely behind was Michael Kim, who carded a flawless 63 to reach 10 under, joining Alex Smalley, who posted a solid 65.
Former major winner Jordan Spieth also made a strong showing, recording eagles on the 13th and 15th holes en route to a 65, placing him at 9 under par in just his second tournament back after undergoing wrist surgery in the off-season. Not far behind were three-time PGA Tour champion Tom Kim and Christiaan Bezuidenhout, both at 9 under after shooting 66s.
The electrifying moment of the day came when Argentine golfer Emiliano Grillo thrilled the crowd by sinking a hole-in-one on the rowdy par-3 16th, prompting cheers and even a cascade of beer from enthusiastic spectators. Despite efforts by tournament officials to limit such celebrations after previous incidents, Grillo’s shot, which tantalizingly circled the cup before dropping in, triggered a joyous eruption from the crowd.
Not to be outdone, Justin Thomas came close to matching Grillo’s feat, hitting his tee shot on the 16th hole to within 3 feet, ultimately carding a 68 to move to 8 under par. Meanwhile, world number one Scottie Scheffler continued his solid play, shooting a bogey-free 66 to reach 7 under, following a challenging start to his tournament due to a quirky kitchen mishap during the holiday season.
Detry, a two-time Belgian Olympian, continued his strong play from the first round by posting a 66 and notching three birdies early in his second round. A birdie on the 9th hole ignited a string of birdies, culminating in a near ace on the 16th hole, showcasing his determination to secure his first PGA Tour victory.
Spieth, fresh off a modest performance at Pebble Beach, displayed resilience by navigating tough situations to shoot a solid 68 in the opening round. His second round was highlighted by spectacular eagle putts on the back-nine par-5s, propelling him into contention at 9 under par.
As the tournament unfolded, Alex Smalley continued his consistent play with a strong start in the second round, carding four birdies in a five-hole stretch. Despite a stumble on the 15th hole, Smalley
