Justin Rose Stretches Lead at Farmers Insurance Open as Koepka Makes the Cut in San Diego
England’s Justin Rose delivered another masterclass at Torrey Pines, producing a superb seven-under-par 65 in the second round of the Farmers Insurance Open to open up a commanding four-shot lead at the top of the leaderboard.
At 45 years of age, Rose continues to defy time and expectations, moving to 17 under par after 36 holes and surpassing his own tournament record for the lowest score at the halfway stage. His closest challenger is Ireland’s Seamus Power, who sits four strokes back on 13 under, while a tightly packed chasing group remains in contention behind them.
Rose Thrives on Torrey Pines’ Toughest Test
Friday’s round was played on Torrey Pines’ demanding South Course, traditionally regarded as one of the sternest tests on the PGA Tour. Yet Rose made the challenge look manageable, carding an eagle, six birdies, and just a single bogey in what proved to be the best round of the day across the field.
His control from tee to green, combined with assured putting, allowed him to pull away from the pack and underline why Torrey Pines has always suited his game.
Reflecting on his performance, Rose explained that difficult courses tend to bring out his best golf, a trend that has followed him throughout his career.
He also highlighted his affection for the event, praising the atmosphere, surroundings, and overall feel of the tournament, which has long been one of his favourites on the PGA Tour calendar.
Chasers Trying to Keep Pace
Behind Rose and Power, American Matt McGreevy and Joel Dahmen are tied on 11 under par, while South Korea’s Si Woo Kim is close behind on 10 under. A large group sits on nine under, including Eric Cole, Ryo Hisatsune, Maverick McNealy, Justin Lower, Sahith Theegala, Michael Thorbjornsen, and David Walker.
While the leaderboard remains crowded, Rose’s consistency and ability to score on the tougher South Course have given him a significant cushion heading into the weekend.
Koepka Finds His Feet on PGA Tour Return
One of the major storylines of the second round was the continued comeback of Brooks Koepka, who successfully made the cut in his return to the PGA Tour.
The five-time major champion, playing his first PGA Tour event in four years after agreeing to a release from his LIV Golf contract at the end of 2025, carded a steady four-under-par 68 to move to three under overall.
Koepka’s round came on the North Course, where he appeared far more settled than during his opening day on the South Course, when he struggled to a 73.
A highlight of his second round was an eagle putt on the par-five 17th, a moment that showcased flashes of the form that once made him one of the most feared competitors in the game.
Koepka admitted that nerves played a part in his opening round, describing a mixture of excitement and uncertainty as he returned to familiar territory after a long absence.
By Friday, however, he felt more comfortable and confident, though he acknowledged that the extended layoff still requires patience as he gauges where his game stands against elite competition.
Big Names Fall at the Cut Line
While Koepka advanced, several high-profile players were less fortunate. Xander Schauffele’s impressive streak of 72 consecutive cuts made, the longest active run on the PGA Tour, came to an end.
Schauffele was joined on the sidelines by a list of notable names, including Patrick Cantlay, Gary Woodland, Will Zalatoris, JJ Spaun, Max Homa, and Ludvig Åberg, all of whom failed to progress to the weekend.
Their exits added to the sense of unpredictability that often defines Torrey Pines, where even the world’s best players can be punished for the slightest lapse in precision.
A Weekend Poised for Drama
With two rounds complete, the stage is set for an intriguing weekend. Rose’s commanding lead gives him breathing room, but Torrey Pines is notorious for shifting momentum quickly, particularly if weather conditions toughen or pin positions become more aggressive.
Seamus Power remains the most immediate threat, while the chasing pack will hope to apply pressure early and force Rose into mistakes.
Koepka, meanwhile, will aim to build rhythm and climb the leaderboard, using this tournament as a benchmark for his return to the PGA Tour and a stepping stone toward regaining his competitive edge.
Experience vs Hunger
The second round highlighted a fascinating contrast at the top of the leaderboard: Rose’s calm, seasoned control against a group of hungry challengers eager to seize their opportunity.
For Rose, this event represents another chance to add to an already distinguished career, reinforcing his reputation as one of golf’s most durable and adaptable performers.
For the rest of the field, the challenge will be matching his consistency under pressure on a course that offers little forgiveness.
Looking Ahead
As the Farmers Insurance Open moves into the weekend rounds, attention will remain firmly fixed on whether Rose can maintain his advantage and convert his halfway lead into victory, or whether Torrey Pines will once again produce late drama.
For Koepka, simply being back in the mix marks an important milestone, while the tournament as a whole continues to deliver compelling storylines across generations of elite golfers.
For full golf coverage, leaderboards, and breaking sports news, visit https://netsports247.com.
