At the 2024 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities, Jacob Bridgeman took the lead after a stunning performance, using an old putter from his high school days to make nine birdies and shoot an 8-under 63 in the opening round. This put him one stroke ahead of Mackenzie Hughes. Due to travel issues, Bridgeman’s caddie was unable to make it to the tournament, so Bridgeman spent time in the TaylorMade truck on Tuesday and decided to use a gray Spider mallet putter that he had used six years ago.
In his opening round, Bridgeman made four birdies in his first eight holes, including sinking a 34-foot putt at No. 8, but his only bogey came at the ninth hole. He bounced back with three consecutive birdies starting at No. 12, making a 20-footer at 13, and even holing a bunker shot at 17. Reflecting on his performance, Bridgeman said the bunker shot surprised him as he thought it was a difficult shot that turned into a birdie.
Prior to the 3M Open, Bridgeman had missed three consecutive cuts and was feeling low on confidence. However, he received pep talks from his parents, college coach at Clemson University, and girlfriend, who reminded him about the importance of rest and balance. This encouragement helped Bridgeman regain his confidence and mental focus, paving the way for his successful performance at the tournament. Despite his recent struggles, Bridgeman remained determined and saw the tournament as an opportunity to turn things around.
As a young player on the Tour, Bridgeman acknowledged the challenges of competing at the highest level, noting that the competition continues to improve. However, he emphasized the importance of adapting and evolving his game to stay competitive. Despite not achieving a top-10 finish so far in the season, a potential win at the 3M Open could significantly boost Bridgeman’s ranking and help him achieve his dreams of success on the Tour. With a win, Bridgeman could soar to No. 63 in the rankings, highlighting the impact of his performance at the tournament.
Overall, Bridgeman’s impressive round at the 3M Open showcased his resilience, talent, and ability to perform under pressure. Utilizing an old putter and overcoming recent struggles, Bridgeman demonstrated his determination and potential for success in professional golf. With the support of his loved ones and a newfound mindset, Bridgeman approached the tournament with renewed confidence and ultimately seized the opportunity to lead in the opening round. As he continues his journey in professional golf, Bridgeman’s performance at the 3M Open serves as a testament to his skills and determination to succeed in the sport.
