Jake Knapp’s phenomenal round of 59 on the first day of the 2025 Cognizant Classic sent shockwaves through the golfing world, making him the 15th player to achieve a sub-60 round on the prestigious PGA Tour. This remarkable feat was made on a day when PGA National seemed unusually lenient, with a striking 22 golfers managing to shoot 66 or lower.
However, not everyone was impressed with the course’s setup. Billy Horschel expressed dissatisfaction with the condition of PGA National, while Michael Kim took to social media after his round to comment on the overseed. The critique wasn’t limited to the players either; golf enthusiasts also voiced their concerns, expecting a more rigorous challenge for the world’s top players from a course known for its demanding nature.
Historically, the Florida-based PGA National has been one of the most challenging venues on the tour, often resulting in comparatively high winning scores. Since it started hosting the Honda Classic in 2007, the highest winning score was logged by Mark Wilson, who finished at five under. This win, Wilson’s first PGA Tour victory, came in his 111th start and was highlighted by a ten-foot putt on the par-three 17th that saw him beat Jose Coceres in the third playoff hole. This victory not only brought Wilson a hefty $990,000 in prize money but also secured his Tour exemption until the 2009 season.
On the other side of the spectrum, the lowest winning score at PGA National was set just a year ago by Austin Eckroat, who finished a clear four shots ahead at 17 under. This victory marked Eckroat’s first Tour win, established over four sub-68 rounds, and was followed by another win at the WWT Championship in 2024. Prior to Eckroat, Chris Kirk held the record for the lowest winning score at PGA National with a 14-under victory in 2023.
Adding to PGA National’s list of memorable moments, Tiger Woods’ lowest-ever final round occurred at this very venue in 2012, where he ended as a runner-up to Rory McIlroy.
As the 2025 Cognizant Classic continues, all eyes are on Knapp, who stands at 12 under, alongside several other players under par. Given these circumstances, it seems likely that PGA National will witness a new 72-hole scoring record in 2025. This exciting prospect adds another layer of anticipation to the tournament, leaving both players and fans eagerly awaiting the next swing.
