In an extraordinary display of talent and determination, 18-year-old Blades Brown has captured attention at The American Express in La Quinta, California, where he finished the second round tied for the lead with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. Brown’s impressive round of 12-under 60, recorded on the Nicklaus Tournament course at PGA West, is now a tournament record and positions him as a striking newcomer on the PGA Tour.
Despite being just his 10th start on the PGA Tour, Brown came within a whisker of achieving one of golf’s rarest feats—posting a sub-60 round. A missed eight-foot birdie putt on the ninth hole dashed his hopes of joining the exclusive club of players who have managed this significant achievement in PGA history. Reflecting on his performance, Brown expressed gratitude: “I love playing PGA Tour events… It’s the lowest round on the PGA Tour for me, and lots and lots of positives.”
This moment marks a significant milestone in Brown’s professional career, which he opted to pursue instead of attending college. After earning status on the Korn Ferry Tour last year, Brown had recently competed in the Bahamas Great Abaco Classic, concluding with a tied for 17th finish just before arriving in Coachella Valley. He made the trip by utilizing a private jet coupon he had won two years earlier at a Myrtle Beach event.
Scheffler, while finishing the day with a solid bogey-free round of 64, did not meet his usual expectations and will now face Brown as they head into the intense weekend rounds. “Scottie is an unbelievable player, and to see my name next to his on the leaderboard means a lot,” Brown remarked.
On Saturday, Brown will tee off at 11:52 a.m. ET, continuing what has been an impressive week, with the potential to set a modern record for the number of competitive rounds played within just eight days across both the PGA and Korn Ferry tours.
With aspirations high and confidence soaring, Brown humorously planned to catch up on rest between rounds: “I’m going to go take a nap after this, and probably get some food.” His remarkable journey serves as an inspiring reminder of what dedication and talent can achieve in the world of golf.