GOLF.com: Koivun Fires Record 61 to Lead 3M Open by Three, Scheffler Lurks Six Back

Jackson Koivun, the 21-year-old rookie professional, fired a stunning 10-under 61 on Saturday to seize the 54-hole lead at the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities. He stands at 20-under, three clear of Emiliano Grillo and Ben Kohles, with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler lurking six shots back.

A Record-Breaking Back Nine

After a modest one-under front nine, Koivun erupted on the back, carding an 8-under 28 to set a new TPC Twin Cities back-nine record. The highlights included a 305-yard 3-wood approach to the center of the 12th green followed by a 12-foot Eagle putt to take the lead, and another Eagle on 18 from 14 feet — two Eagles in the final seven holes.

Scheffler's Move

Earlier in the day, Scheffler had posted a 7-under 64, briefly creating a seven-way tie at the top. His back-nine surge included a chip-in Eagle on the short par-4 16th, leaving him with a 28 on the back himself — only to be matched and bettered by Koivun roughly 80 minutes later. "I'm going to need another low number tomorrow," Scheffler said.

Koivun's Rapid Rise

The 2023 top-ranked amateur became the first college player to sweep all four major collegiate awards in a single season at Auburn University. He turned 21 in May, helped Auburn to an NCAA team title in June, and turned pro just weeks later. This week is only his third start as a professional.

Strokeslab Perspective

Koivun's ability to attack pins aggressively while converting clutch putts is a hallmark of elite SG: Approach and SG: Putting performance. His willingness to hit a 3-wood into a par-5 green from 305 yards — and make the putt — reflects a decision-making clarity well beyond his 21 years. The final round will test whether that composure holds with Scheffler in pursuit.