Zach Johnson fired a 7-under 63 to grab a four-shot lead at the Kaulig Companies Championship, putting him 18 holes from another major title.
Zach Johnson turned a rain-softened Firestone Country Club into target practice Saturday, firing a 7-under 63 to seize control of the Kaulig Companies Championship.
The 50-year-old built a four-shot lead through 54 holes at 13-under 197, putting himself in position to capture the fourth major of the PGA Tour Champions season.
Johnson opened with consecutive 67s before delivering his best round of the week when the conditions finally gave players permission to attack.
“It was pretty much point and shoot and stop,” Johnson said.
He certainly took advantage.
Johnson tore through the front nine in 5-under 30, producing one of the cleanest stretches he can remember playing. He added two more birdies after the turn and avoided the kind of mistake that could have reopened the tournament.
“The front nine was as solid of nine holes as I’ve played in I couldn’t tell you how long,” Johnson said.
The performance continued a remarkable opening season on the senior circuit.
Johnson has already won twice in eight PGA Tour Champions starts, claiming the James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational in his debut and the Principal Charity Classic in his native Iowa.
He also proved last week that he can still compete against younger players, tying for ninth at the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic after skipping the U.S. Senior Open.
Miguel Angel Jiménez delivered Saturday’s lowest round, scorching Firestone with a 62 to move into second place. The 62-year-old Spaniard also shot his age for the first time.
“Every time you can shoot your age is great,” Jiménez said.
Cameron Percy slipped to third at 7 under after a 70. Darren Clarke and Tag Ridings sit another shot back at 6 under after matching 68s.
Charles Schwab Cup leader Stewart Cink reached 5 under with a 68, while 68-year-old Bernhard Langer shot his age or better for the 45th time with a 67.
Johnson knows the tournament isn’t finished. Firestone still demands patience, and a shift in wind or course conditions could quickly change the equation.
“I played 54 good ones,” Johnson said. “I’ve got 18 more to go and I’ve got to play good.”
There’s also history hanging over the final round. This marks the last year the event will be played at Firestone, ending a PGA Tour relationship that dates to 1954.
Johnson now has the chance to become the final major champion crowned on one of golf’s most recognizable stages.
