Kurt Kitayama’s Weekend Performance at the 2025 3M Open
Kurt Kitayama entered the weekend at the 2025 3M Open trailing the leader by eight strokes, having barely made the cut after the first two rounds. The former UNLV golfer delivered an outstanding weekend to secure his second career victory on the PGA Tour. On Saturday, he shot an impressive 11-under 60, which tied the course record initially set by Adam Svensson on Thursday. He followed up with a final round of 65, allowing him to take control in Minnesota.
Impact on FedEx Cup Standings
This win catapults Kitayama from 110th to 53rd in the FedEx Cup standings. This achievement guarantees his participation in the first playoff event, the St. Jude Classic, while also putting him in a strong position to break into the top 50. A spot in this upper echelon assures qualification for the BMW Championship and all eight elite events in the upcoming season.
Strong Start on Final Day
Kitayama commenced his final round in impressive fashion, sinking birdies on his first three holes, including a remarkable chip-in on the third from the rough. He added two more birdies on holes five and six, establishing a three-stroke lead that he maintained throughout the day. He broke 30 on the front nine for the second straight day, finishing with a 6-under 30.
Consistent Ball Striking
Displaying excellent ball-striking, Kitayama gained almost 10 strokes on the field through his approach shots, successfully landing six different approaches within six feet of the hole. This proficiency eased any pressure on the greens, allowing him to respond quickly whenever competitors drew near on the leaderboard.
A Memorable Shot and Closing Challenges
One of Kitayama’s standout moments occurred on the par-4 14th. After hitting into a fairway bunker while holding a two-shot lead, he brilliantly aimed for the flag, setting up his eighth birdie of the day to reach 24 under. However, he faced some pressure on the demanding par-3 17th, where he recorded a three-putt bogey, slipping back to 23 under.
Competitors Struggle
Fortunately for Kitayama, his closest rivals encountered difficulties on the par-5 18th. Sam Stevens, who had been within one shot of the lead, faced issues in the rough, and Jake Knapp, trailing by two, ended up in the water with his approach. Stevens managed to salvage a par, giving Kitayama room to secure his win with a par of his own. Although Kitayama faced a challenging bunker shot, he escaped with a firm shot to finish effectively.
A Turnaround Season
Kitayama’s victory marks his first in two years, significantly revitalizing a season that had previously been challenging. Before this week, he only had two top 10 finishes, but this remarkable weekend transformed his year into one filled with renewed potential. Grade: A+
Leaderboard Highlights
2. Sam Stevens (-22): Stevens finished with a strong back nine, but a par on the 18th left him just shy of a tie. His performance has solidified his position in the top 30 of the FedEx Cup standings. Grade: A-
T3. Jake Knapp (-21): Knapp, still seeking his second win, faced disappointment with a bogey on the last hole. However, he remains in strong contention for top events in the upcoming season. Grade: B+
T10. Chris Gotterup (-18): After a less-than-ideal final round, Gotterup still managed a third consecutive top 10 finish, enhancing his chances for the Tour Championship. Grade: B
T12. Wyndham Clark (-17): Clark showed steady improvement, climbing in the FedEx Cup standings and aiming for the Tour Championship. Grade: B
T14. Thorbjørn Olesen (-16): After a promising start, Olesen faltered on Sunday and will need to improve to secure his status for 2026. Grade: D+
T25. Akshay Bhatia (-14): Struggling off the tee, Bhatia’s performance plummeted after a challenging final round, leaving him uncertain for the upcoming events. Grade: D
