PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. (AP) – Jake Knapp struggled with an 11-shot deficit compared to his opening round at the Cognizant Classic but still secured the lead, rolling in a 15-foot birdie putt on his final hole Friday for a one-shot lead over Matthieu Pavon.

Knapp, who set a record by making 12 birdies on Thursday during his round of 59, carded a 70 while battling consistency, including ten holes without a birdie. He recorded a double bogey on the sixth when his tee shot ended up in the water. Despite the ups and downs, he managed to bounce back to finish strong.

Knapp commented after his round, “I’ve never had to follow up a 59 at a tournament before. It’s all new to me. Yesterday, everything was just clicking ball-striking wise, and I really controlled my distance and flight.”

Knapp ended the day at 13-under 129, with Pavon close on his heels after posting a 64. Others such as Daniel Berger, Michael Kim, Doug Ghim, and Jesper Svensson followed behind, eager to capitalize on this weekend’s challenges.

Star golfer Jordan Spieth faced difficulties, including a triple bogey on hole 17, but managed to recover slightly with a birdie on the final hole to finish at 70, remaining six strokes off the lead.

The 2025 Cognizant Classic showcases both experienced and rookie golfers, setting up intriguing matchups as the competition heats up as they advance towards Moving Day.