A Rising Star at the Helm
The 2026 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities has reached a critical juncture, with PGA Tour newcomer Jackson Koivun holding a three-shot lead heading into the final round. Koivun, who secured his spot on the tour through the PGA Tour University Accelerated program, delivered a remarkable third-round performance, carding a 10-under 61. His day was highlighted by a record-setting back-nine 28 and two eagles, cementing his position at the top of the leaderboard.
Koivun’s ascent has been swift. After earning his Tour card in 2025, he returned to Auburn University to help lead the Tigers to a national title, establishing himself as a decorated amateur before turning his focus to professional play. Now, in only his third start as a full-fledged member, he finds himself in the final group, tasked with holding off a field of seasoned veterans and the world’s top-ranked player, Scottie Scheffler.
The Sunday Field and Stakes
The leaderboard remains tightly packed, with Emiliano Grillo and Ben Kohles trailing by three shots. Further back, at 16-under, are Chandler Phillips and Michael Brennan. Scottie Scheffler, ever the threat, remains within striking distance, keeping the pressure on the young leader. For Koivun, Sunday represents his first 54-hole lead on the PGA Tour, a milestone that requires both technical precision and the mental fortitude to manage the expectations of a high-pressure final round.
The “Shoe-Removal” Incident
Beyond the competition, the tournament has been marked by a viral moment involving former U.S. Open champion Lucas Glover. During the final round, footage circulated of Glover removing his shoes after sinking a birdie putt on the 10th hole. Initial speculation suggested this was a protest against the “AimPoint” green-reading technique, a method favored by many professionals but criticized by some for its perceived impact on pace of play and the integrity of putting lines.
Glover, however, took to social media to clarify the situation. Responding to the FlushingIt account, he explained that the gesture was “just goofing off” in response to accusations from a player in the group ahead that he was leaving spike marks on the green. Glover, who wears metal spikes, felt unfairly singled out, leading to his lighthearted reaction. The incident highlights the ongoing tensions regarding pace of play and the professional etiquette surrounding green-reading on the circuit.