18 February 2024 , 13:50
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Patrick Cantlay is still on course to win the Genesis Invitational - despite being criticised for breaking a PGA Tour rule.
Ex-Presidents Cup vice-captain Tony Johnstone called for Cantlay to receive a "huge fine" after he failed to shout fore twice during the opening round of the tournament at the Riviera Country Club in California. Johnstone was furious with the 31-year-old's etiquette.
"Back to back shots and Cantlay hits a ball-spotter and then spectators around the green," wrote Johnstone on X. "Would a shout of 'fore' be out of the question?" Johnstone then added: "(Cantlay) should be nailed with a huge fine."
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Despite the controversy, Cantlay is poised to claim his first PGA Tour title since defending the BMW Championship in August 2022. He shot a round of 70 on Saturday to reach 14 under par, boasting a two shot lead over Xander Schauffele and Will Zalatoris.
Schauffele and Zalatoris both shot a round of 65 on Saturday to move into contention at the Genesis Invitational. Luke List is three shots behind Cantlay on 11 under par, while Harris English and Jason Day are both one shot further back.
Despite the chasing pack, Cantlay is feeling confident of winning again. "I played solid golf today, I didn't make any long putts or anything," he said. "(I) didn't really give myself too many chances, but all in all a solid day and in good position for the final round."
Cantlay is trying end his 18-month wait for a PGA Tour title (Getty Images)But Schauffele is also feeling upbeat. The Olympic champion added: "To play good golf around Riviera you've got to sort of fire on all cylinders, and been able to do that the last couple days. Just wanted to give myself a shot (Sunday). I see Pat's still making birdies, so he looks like a tough man to beat right now."
Although Cantlay and Schauffele, who are close friends, are both in a great position to win the Genesis Invitational, the same can't be said about Rory McIlroy. The four-time major champion is four under par after rounds of 74, 66 and 69.
Yet McIlroy, who hasn't won a major for 10 years, is confident his game is in a good position ahead of the Masters in April. He said: "I did some good work last week. My coach Michael Bannon came over and I felt pretty good about everything this week even though obviously not quite in contention. Game's feeling pretty good."
Tiger Woods will not be involved in Sunday's final round after withdrawing on Friday through illness. The 15-time major champion, who is the tournament's host, told fans on X: "I would like to confirm that I had to withdraw from the Genesis Invitational due to illness, which we now know is influenza. I am resting and feeling better.
"Good luck to the players this weekend. I’m disappointed to not be there and want to thank Genesis and all the fans for the support."