Stenson casts aside distractions to lead LIV Golf Bedminster
Henrik Stenson heads out to play his second round today – photo LIV Golf
Henrik Stenson has cast aside the distractions of the past two weeks to lead the LIV Series Bedminster event into the third and final round in Bedminster in New Jersey.
Stenson’s second round of 69 has him three clear of Dustin Johnson with co-first round leader Patrick Reed another shot back in a share of third place with Taylor Gooch and Carlos Ortiz.
The highlight of Stenson’s round was a massive eagle putt at the 8th and although he would drop a shot at the 18th, that he has the lead after such a emotional week during which he lost the Ryder Cup captaincy is particularly impressive.
“Yeah, it’s certainly been a busy and emotional week, no question, or 10 days,” said Stenson. “But I was very happy with how I managed to channel the concentration and go out and play the best round of the season yesterday.
“I didn’t have my best stuff today, but I was still focused and good attitude, and that’s what kept me in the ballgame. Yeah, pleased with the way I’ve kind of kept my head down and focused on business.
“Today I definitely didn’t have my best, but I was hanging in there. It was tougher conditions with the wind. It’s a tough golf course, and the greens are extremely quick and quite undulated. With the wind it’s even harder to put the ball in the perfect spots, and yeah, it was a bit of a grind at times, and then we kind of came through with some really good shots and made some nice putts.”
Travis Smyth added a 73 to his opening 69 to be tied in 14th place and lead the four Australians in the 48 man field.
Dustin Johnson – photo LIV Golf
