The 2024 Zozo Championship is coming down to the wire as Nico Echavarria and Justin Thomas are battling for the title. Echavarria currently holds a two-shot lead over Thomas heading into the final round, thanks to a strong performance on the last hole of the third round where he made an eagle. Despite Thomas’ impressive record of 15 PGA Tour wins, Echavarria, with only one victory under his belt, is determined to maintain his lead and secure another win.
The prize money at stake for the winner of the Zozo Championship is a hefty $1.53 million out of the $8.5 million total purse. In addition, the winner will also walk away with 500 FedEx Cup points and a two-year exemption on Tour. This adds some extra pressure for both Echavarria and Thomas as they head into the final round with the championship on the line. Echavarria, who won the Puerto Rico Open last year, is hoping to leverage his past success and hold off the competition.
Echavarria had a strong showing during the third round of the Zozo Championship, turning his game around after a slow start. With four birdies on the front nine and a closing eagle on the 18th hole, he finished the round at 5-under. Thomas, on the other hand, got off to a hot start with early birdies but finished with a bogey-free 5-under 65. Both players are aware of the challenges ahead in the final round and are focused on executing their game plans.
For Thomas, who has struggled to secure wins in recent years despite being one of the top players in the game, the Zozo Championship presents an opportunity to break his drought. With a solid performance in the third round, Thomas is within striking distance of Echavarria and remains optimistic about his chances. His key to victory lies in maintaining patience and making the most of the birdie opportunities on the course.
Another contender to watch in the final round is Rickie Fowler, who has been performing well since returning to the Tour after a break following the birth of his second child. Fowler has shown signs of improvement in recent events and is currently tied for fourth at 11 under. With a strong finish in the third round, including a 44-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, Fowler is hopeful that he can build on his momentum and make a push in the final round.
As the final round of the Zozo Championship approaches, all eyes will be on Echavarria, Thomas, and Fowler as they battle for the title. With the leaderboard crowded with talented players, including Max Greyserman, Nate Lashley, and Kevin Yu, the competition is fierce. The odds are in favor of Echavarria and Thomas, with Echavarria holding the lead at 17 under and Thomas close behind at 15 under. The stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the tournament, with the potential for a dramatic finish and a new champion crowned at the Zozo Championship.
