Nick Dunlap had an impressive start at the Memorial tournament, surprising many with his early performance. The 20-year-old golfer shot a 2-under-par 70 at Muirfield Village Golf Club, taking the clubhouse lead while most players were still on the course. This is quite an achievement for someone who only turned pro this year after starting as an amateur and having limited experience at Muirfield Village.
Although Dunlap may not be a familiar name to casual golf fans, he has already made history in the sport. Earlier this year, he won the American Express tournament, becoming the first amateur to win a PGA Tour event since Phil Mickelson in 1991. In addition, he won the U.S. Amateur championship last August and the U.S. Junior Amateur two years prior, joining Tiger Woods as the only golfer to win both titles.
After playing golf for Alabama in college, Dunlap decided to turn pro following his victory at the American Express. He has managed to make the cut in seven out of 11 PGA tour events, showcasing his talent and potential in the professional circuit.
Reflecting on his success, Dunlap expressed his gratitude and excitement for being able to compete on the tour at such a young age. He mentioned that playing at prestigious venues like Muirfield Village has been a dream come true for him, even if he didn’t expect it to happen so quickly.
Despite the challenges of playing at Muirfield Village, known for its difficulty and unique design, Dunlap remained focused and composed during his round. While his front nine was a bit shaky with three bogeys and no birdies, he managed to turn things around on the back nine, birdying the first four holes and No. 15.
Dunlap highlighted the importance of staying patient and not getting discouraged by early mistakes. He mentioned that the course requires precision and that even good shots can sometimes lead to tough situations due to the narrow margins for error. By capitalizing on his opportunities and making key putts down the stretch, Dunlap was able to finish his round strong and secure the clubhouse lead.
Overall, Dunlap’s performance at the Memorial tournament has been impressive, showcasing his skills and potential as a rising star in professional golf. With his determination and talent, he is definitely someone to watch out for in future tournaments.