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Scottie Scheffler Fires 64 to Take Three-Shot Lead at WGC-Mexico Championship

Tom Bradley
Tom Bradley
Golf Editor
2:19 PM
GOLF
Scottie Scheffler Fires 64 to Take Three-Shot Lead at WGC-Mexico Championship
The world number one carded eight birdies in a bogey-free round at Club de Golf Chapultepec to distance himself from the field heading into the weekend.

Scottie Scheffler delivered a masterclass in precision golf today, firing a flawless 8-under-par 64 to seize a commanding three-shot lead after the second round of the WGC-Mexico Championship at Club de Golf Chapultepec in Mexico City. The world number one was in complete control throughout his bogey-free round, demonstrating the consistent excellence that has made him the game's premier player over the past two years.

Scheffler's round was highlighted by exceptional iron play and putting, as he recorded eight birdies while never seriously threatening to card a bogey on the challenging layout situated 7,800 feet above sea level. The 29-year-old Texan opened with birdies on the second and fourth holes before adding three more on the back nine, including a spectacular approach shot to within two feet on the par-4 15th hole that drew roars from the enthusiastic Mexican gallery. "I felt really comfortable with my swing today and the putter was rolling it beautifully," Scheffler said after his round. "This altitude takes some getting used to, but I'm starting to dial in the yardages."

The performance moved Scheffler to 13-under-par for the tournament, three shots clear of a group of four players that includes defending champion Viktor Hovland, rising star Ludvig Åberg, and veteran Justin Thomas. Hovland carded a solid 67 to remain in contention for his second consecutive title at this venue, while Åberg continued his impressive rookie season on the PGA Tour with a bogey-free 66 that showcased his tremendous potential on golf's biggest stages. Thomas bounced back from an opening-round 71 with a 65 that included seven birdies and demonstrated why he remains one of the tour's most dangerous players when his putter heats up.

Scheffler's dominance this season has been remarkable, with four victories in his last eight starts and a level of consistency that recalls the peak years of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. His ball-striking has been particularly impressive, ranking first on tour in both strokes gained approaching the green and greens in regulation percentage. The two-time Masters champion has also shown improved putting under the guidance of instructor Brad Faxon, addressing the one area of his game that occasionally held him back during his ascent to world number one.

Mexico City's unique conditions, including the thin air and firm playing surfaces, have historically favored players who can control trajectory and spin on their iron shots—skills that play directly into Scheffler's strengths. His ability to flight the ball properly in the altitude while maintaining distance control has been evident throughout the first two rounds, giving him a significant advantage over players still adjusting to the venue's demands. Tournament host Carlos Slim praised the quality of play during Thursday's pro-am, noting that the field's depth makes this one of the strongest WGC events in recent memory.

With 36 holes remaining, Scheffler will attempt to convert his lead into his fifth victory of the 2026 season and further cement his status as golf's dominant force. His nearest challengers face the daunting task of making up ground on a player who has shown remarkable composure and consistency in similar situations throughout his career. Weather forecasts call for ideal conditions over the weekend, setting up what promises to be an exciting conclusion to one of the PGA Tour's most prestigious events. For Scheffler, the opportunity to add another WGC title to his growing résumé represents another step toward what could be one of the greatest individual seasons in professional golf history.

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