Andrew Novak surged into a commanding lead at the VidantaWorld Mexico Open on Friday, firing a spectacular 10-under 61 to move three shots clear of the field at Vidanta Vallarta. The 31-year-old American reached 14-under 128 after two rounds, matching the tournament's 18-hole scoring record.
Novak’s performance was highlighted by a late birdie run, including three birdies in his final four holes, to distance himself from a crowded leaderboard. Five players currently share second place at 11-under 131, including Ben Griffin and amateur Kihei Akina.
The turning point for Novak arrived at the par-4 13th hole, where he drove the green and converted a 12-foot eagle putt. He then capitalized on a two-shot swing at the 15th, where he birdied while Griffin recorded a bogey.
Novak, who entered the week 89th in the FedExCup Fall standings, credited a change in equipment for his resurgence. He revealed he had returned to an old, rusted putter after struggling on the greens for much of the season.
"I got very frustrated with that, every single week being told that there's nothing wrong with my putting and then just being dead last," Novak said. "It's rusted out, it's old, but I know it works."
The American noted that his ball-striking had remained consistent throughout the year, but his inability to convert opportunities had hindered his results. His performance on Friday saw him lead the field in strokes gained putting.
Amateur Kihei Akina continued his impressive form, carding a 64 to remain in contention. The 20-year-old BYU sophomore has now recorded nine rounds of 67 or lower in his last four PGA Tour appearances.
Also tied for second at 11-under are Matthieu Pavon, Adrien Dumont de Chassart, and Japan’s Kensei Hirata. The group remains within striking distance of Novak as the tournament heads into the weekend rounds.
The cut was set at 4-under 138, leaving several notable players out of the weekend action. Tony Finau missed the mark by a single stroke, while U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark finished at 1-over after a second-round 73.
Local favorite Alvaro Ortiz remains in the hunt at 9-under. The Mexican golfer, who previously won the event when it was part of the PGA Tour Latinoamerica, sits five shots behind the leader heading into Saturday.
Novak acknowledged the favorable scoring conditions at Vidanta Vallarta but remained cautious about the remainder of the tournament. He emphasized the need to continue hitting fairways to maintain his advantage.
"I separated a little bit, but we're halfway there. There's so much golf to play," Novak said. "I'm going to have to go out and keep hitting a bunch of fairways and give myself opportunities."
The VidantaWorld Mexico Open serves as a critical event for players looking to improve their standing in the FedExCup Fall. A strong finish could prove vital for those seeking to secure their status for the 2027 season.
The tournament continues on Saturday with the third round. Players will look to capitalize on the scoring-friendly conditions at Vidanta Vallarta to close the gap on Novak before Sunday's final round.
Brief scores: 1. Andrew Novak 128 (-14); T2. Ben Griffin, Kihei Akina, Matthieu Pavon, Adrien Dumont de Chassart, Kensei Hirata 131 (-11).
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