Michael Kim Charges to Top 10 in Round Three at PGA Championship

Michael Kim delivered a spectacular charge up the leaderboard during the third round of the PGA Championship on Saturday, shooting a five-under 30 on the front nine at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania. The South Korean player, who had barely made the cut, vaulted into the top ten with a blistering start that featured six birdies in his first seven holes.

Kim’s weekend was only secured after he chipped in for eagle on his final shot of the second round to extend his tournament. He capitalized on that reprieve with an early tee time on Saturday, opening with three consecutive birdies. His performance on the front nine alone included more birdies than he had recorded in the first two rounds combined, propelling him from 93rd after the opening round to ninth place as he made the turn.

The tournament has been characterized by an exceptionally tight leaderboard. After 36 holes, 15 players were separated by just two shots, marking the biggest logjam heading into a major weekend since 2002. The difference between first and last among the 82 players who made the cut was a mere eight strokes. Kim’s low score was an early indication that the congested field could see...