A Rookie Makes History in Minnesota
The 2026 3M Open is set for a dramatic conclusion this Sunday. Jackson Koivun stands alone at the top of the leaderboard. The 21-year-old rookie has captured the attention of the entire PGA Tour. He is playing in just his third event as a professional. Despite his lack of experience, he owns a commanding three-shot lead. This situation sets the stage for a thrilling finale at TPC Twin Cities. Fans across the country will tune in to see if the young star can hold on. The final round takes place on Sunday, July 26, according to Golf.com.
The Path to the Top of the Leaderboard
How did a rookie reach this point so quickly? The answer lies in Saturday’s incredible performance. Koivun shot a 10-under 61 to charge into the lead. That round propelled him to a total score-to-par of 20 under. This score is good enough for a three-shot advantage heading into Sunday’s finale. Ben Kohles and Emiliano Grillo will start the final round tied for second. They sit at 17 under, chasing the young leader. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler is six shots back at 14 under. His presence adds significant weight to the leaderboard battle. Every player on the course knows the difficulty of closing out a win. Koivun’s 61 was a statement shot. It showed he belongs among the best in the field. The pressure of a three-shot lead is immense. Yet, the rookie has already proven he can handle big moments. His rise in just three events is a story worth watching. The golf world is watching to see if he can convert this lead into a trophy.
Why This Final Round Matters So Much
This Sunday’s finish offers more than just a tournament win. It marks a potential turning point for a new generation of players. A victory for Koivun would validate his rapid ascent up the rankings. It proves that young talent can dominate established stars like Scheffler. The contrast between the 21-year-old and the World No. 1 creates a compelling narrative. Golf fans love a story where the underdog takes charge. The pressure on Koivun will be different from previous rounds. He must defend his lead against hungry contenders. Kohles and Grillo know they need a perfect day to catch him. Scheffler needs a miracle to win, but he can still chase a top finish. The drama at TPC Twin Cities will be palpable. Every birdie and bogey will carry extra weight. The course will test the mental fortitude of the leader. Can a rookie handle the spotlight of a Sunday broadcast? History suggests it is difficult, but not impossible. Koivun’s confidence from his 61 will be his biggest asset. He knows he has the game to win. Now he must prove he has the nerve to finish it.
Where to Catch the Action Live
Viewers have multiple ways to watch the final round of the 3M Open. Fans can catch the coverage on TV via CBS and Golf Channel. Golf Channel kicks off the broadcast at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday. The action moves to CBS for the main telecast starting at 3 p.m. ET. For those who prefer streaming, PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ offers exclusive early coverage. This service starts at 8 a.m. ET. It provides featured group and featured hole coverage for die-hard fans. Golf Channel Mobile will also carry a simulcast of the Sunday TV coverage. This ensures fans can watch the drama unfold on their phones. Don’t miss a moment of Koivun’s bid for his first win. The broadcast schedule gives fans plenty of time to follow the leaderboard. Whether you watch on TV or your device, the story is the same. A rookie is one round away from glory.
