Collin Morikawa at Bay Hill was a different story this year compared to last. After leaving in disappointment with a score of 80 in 2022 and missing the cut at the Arnold Palmer Invitational for the second year in a row, Morikawa came back focused and determined to showcase his talent.
The Bay Hill course remains a challenging venue, but Morikawa seems to be finding his rhythm again, reminiscent of his days as a two-time major champion. He ended his third round on Saturday with a solid 5-under par 67, sinking a crucial 12-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, giving him a narrow one-shot lead over Russell Henley heading into the final day.
“It’s a course that reveals your true skill,” Morikawa stated. “If you’re not on your game, it will show.” The conditions on the course were anything but easy, with three days of warm weather leading to fast greens that tested every player’s abilities. Despite facing some challenges, Morikawa only recorded one bogey in his last 45 holes, which is quite impressive.
Henley also made some noise with a solid performance, starting strong with long bunker shot that set the tone for his round, finishing with a 67 and remaining just one shot back. Meanwhile, Canadian golfer Corey Conners faced some trouble on the 18th hole with a missed fairway, leaving him two strokes behind after a round of 69.
The course was made even more difficult by the warm weather, which dried out the fairways and greens. Players had to be careful with their putting, as balls could easily roll several feet past the hole. Shane Lowry experienced this firsthand, struggling to rein in his putts late in the round. He finished with a 76, leaving him six shots off the lead.
Rory McIlroy did not have the best day either, finishing his round with a 73 and ending up seven shots behind the leader. Scottie Scheffler faced similar challenges, shooting a 71 which left him eight strokes off the pace.
Morikawa’s impressive play brought him to an overall score of 10-under par, with 18 holes left to play. “Hitting good shots is critical out there,” he added. In the final stages of the round, Morikawa, Henley, and Conners exchanged places at the top of the leaderboard, yet Morikawa was the only one able to navigate the final holes without dropping a stroke.
Jason Day, who struggled early in the tournament with a 76, made a comeback with a stellar 64 but stumbled with bogeys, only to recover with three consecutive birdies towards the end of his round. His keen observation of the green conditions demonstrated just how slick they had become.
As the tournament approaches its final round, Morikawa has his sights set on capturing his first PGA Tour title in 17 months. With the right mindset and the support of his long-time coach, he appears ready to take on the challenge that lies ahead.
With a final score in sight and the pressure mounting, the excitement is palpable as players prepare for what could be a thrilling conclusion to the Arnold Palmer Invitational.
