Sepp Straka had an impressive day on Friday at Kapalua’s Plantation course, where the benign conditions allowed for ultra-low scores. Only two out of 59 players in the field posted scores over par, with 32 players firing rounds of five-under (68) or better and eight players signing for 64s, which is nine under par. Despite posting rounds of 69-65 (-12), Straka is still outside the top 10 after 36 holes, trailing Hideki Matsuyama’s lead by four shots. However, Straka made history by carding an incredible seven birdies in a row on the back nine, ending the streak with a par on the 17th hole.
Straka expressed his excitement about achieving a birdie streak and mentioned his enjoyment of making birdies, particularly three in a row on the 12th hole. He continued his impressive run by birdieing holes 13, 14, and 15, aiming for six in a row but settling for seven. Despite Straka’s success, his playing partner, Patton Kizzire, was more disappointed than he was when the streak ended. Straka described missing a putt on the 17th hole as devastating, but he remains focused on his performance moving forward.
Straka admitted that he cannot recall ever achieving a feat like making seven birdies in a row before, believing that seven may be his maximum. He credited his stellar iron play for the birdie barrage and mentioned hitting his iron shots close to the pins, which allowed him to convert the putts. Although he currently sits in a chaser’s position on the leaderboard, Straka acknowledged that anything can happen with low scores and multiple rounds remaining in the tournament.
Midrange putts initially posed a challenge for Straka, but he now relies on a specific drill to improve his putting. Playing partners Kizzire and Stephan Jaegar expressed disappointment with Straka’s finish, given his impressive birdie streak. Despite the pressure, Straka’s confidence in his iron play and ability to hit close shots allowed him to achieve his historic feat on the course. With the tournament ongoing, Straka remains determined to capitalize on his strong performance and climb the leaderboard in the following rounds.
