Sam Burns shot an eight-under 62 on Friday to tie the lowest single-round score ever recorded in a men’s major championship [1, 2].
The performance places Burns in an elite tier of golfers who have conquered the most difficult conditions in the sport. Matching this record during a major championship highlights a rare level of precision and consistency under extreme pressure.
Burns achieved the historic score during Round 2 of the 154th Open Championship [3] at the Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England [2, 3]. His round was capped by a chip-in from a bunker on the final hole, which secured the eight-under 62 [2, 4].
This mark ties the previous record set by Branden Grace, who shot a 62 nine years ago in 2017 [5]. While many players have approached the mark, only a few have managed to break the 63-barrier in the history of men's major golf.
Royal Birkdale is known for its challenging links layout, making the score particularly notable. The combination of wind and treacherous bunkers typically prevents such low scoring, yet Burns maintained his momentum throughout the day [2, 4].
The 154th Open Championship continues this week, with Burns now positioned as a primary contender for the title following his historic Friday performance [3].
“Sam Burns shot an eight-under 62 on Friday to tie the lowest single-round score ever recorded in a men’s major championship.”
Tying the lowest single-round score in major history is a significant statistical anomaly in professional golf. Because majors are designed to be the most difficult tests of a player's skill, a 62 indicates a near-perfect synchronization of putting and ball-striking. This performance not only puts Burns in the record books but provides a massive psychological advantage and a leaderboard cushion heading into the final rounds at Royal Birkdale.
