Andrew Novak surged to a three-shot lead at the Mexico Open with a 10-under 61 on Friday, matching his PGA Tour low score. Novak birdied four of his last five holes, overtaking Ben Griffin after Griffin bogeyed the 15th. Novak closed with a 20-foot birdie to finish 14-under through two rounds, three shots clear of Griffin (67) and Kihei Akina, the 20-year-old Hawaiian who posted a 64.
Akina, seeking a PGA Tour card, chipped in for birdie on the last hole and sits eight points from the requirement. Matthieu Pavon (66), Adrien Dumont du Chassart (67), and Kensei Hirata (68) complete the top group. Novak noted the leaderboard is bunched, emphasizing the need to keep hitting fairways.
Akina praised his comfort level, stating he is playing well and chasing his dream of PGA Tour membership. His progress includes a top-10 at the Bank of Utah Championship and seven points in the PGA Tour University program.
Source: Sky Sports Champions League · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing