Bridgeman surges to 6-shot lead over McIlroy at Genesis - ESPN
ESPN
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jacob Bridgeman dominated the third round of the Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club, shooting a flawless 7-under 64 to take a commanding six-shot lead over Rory McIlroy heading into the final day. Bridgeman’s performance was highlight-reel worthy, including a stunning birdie-eagle-birdie sequence on holes 9-11 that stretched his lead over McIlroy and solidified his position as the front-runner.
Bridgeman, a 26-year-old from Clemson, South Carolina, displayed exceptional skill throughout the day. He opened with two early birdies and showcased his precision with a 7-wood approach to just inches on the par-5 11th hole for an eagle. His only misstep was a missed 6-foot birdie putt on the final hole, but it hardly mattered given his stellar play. Bridgeman’s score of 19-under 194 put him within striking distance of tying or breaking Lanny Wadkins’ 72-hole record of 20-under 264, set in 1985.
Meanwhile, McIlroy, the defending champion, struggled to find his rhythm. Despite a solid round of 69, McIlroy remained seven shots behind Bridgeman. The Northern Irish star acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed optimism about his chances, referencing his ability to rally from behind in past tournaments. Other notable players like Aaron Rai (66) and Xander Schauffele (70) were further back, with Rai eight shots off the pace and Schauffele tied for 12th.
Bridgeman’s performance has captured attention not only for his skill but also for the opportunity to make history at Riviera. The venue is steeped in tradition, and a victory here would crown Bridgeman as a rising star on the PGA Tour. With nine players who have come from six-shot deficits to win, including McIlroy himself in 2023’s Tour Championship, the stage is set for an epic showdown Sunday.
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Originally published on ESPN on 2/22/2026