Morikawa Prepares for FedEx Cup Playoffs
Collin Morikawa described the FedEx Cup playoffs as “a grind.” The three-week season finale kicks off Thursday with the St. Jude Championship at TPC Southwind in Memphis.
Field Overview
This week, the top 70 players in the FedEx Cup standings will compete, excluding No. 2 Rory McIlroy, leading to a cutdown to 50 for the BMW Championship in Owings Mills, Maryland. Ultimately, the top 30 will vie for the FedEx Cup title at the Tour Championship in Atlanta.
Recent Performance
Morikawa finished second in the 2024 FedEx Cup final with a score of 22-under, which was the best in the field. However, Scottie Scheffler won the $25 million top prize due to starting at minus-10, ending with a total of 30 under par, while Morikawa finished at minus-26.
New Championship Format
This year, the starting strokes format has been eliminated. All players will start at even par, with the Tour Championship winner determined solely by the lowest 72-hole score.
Morikawa’s Strategy
Teed up for 10:05 a.m. PT Thursday, Morikawa aims to regain the form he showcased last year when he nearly clinched the FedEx Cup. Currently ranked No. 6 in the official world golf rankings, he is No. 19 in the FedEx Cup standings and understands the need to survive and advance.
Upcoming Challenges
Although Morikawa is mathematically safe this week, needing to perform well to keep advancing. After missing the cut in his last two events, he emphasizes the heightened stakes, noting, “Every shot matters because it comes down to points.”
Caddie Changes and Future Goals
Morikawa has switched caddies multiple times since April, now working with Mark Urbanek, who previously caddied for Tony Finau. As Morikawa looks ahead, he aspires to make the U.S. Ryder Cup team, expressing his desire to represent the country while recognizing the work he needs to put in.
