Thorbjornsen Stuns with 63, Leads Rocket Classic as Weather Threatens to Delay Final Round
Davis Riley holds a one-shot advantage heading into the final round of the 2026 Rocket Classic at Detroit Golf Club, but Michael Thorbjornsen’s breathtaking birdie on the 72nd hole has dramatically shifted the momentum and thrust him into the lead.
Intense Pressure as Rain Looms Over Motor City
A persistent threat of inclement weather hangs over the final day of the tournament, raising the possibility of a postponement. The leaderboard is a tightly packed affair, featuring a host of PGA Tour contenders vying for the $1.8 million prize and a crucial victory.
Riley’s Solid Position, Thorbjornsen’s Surge
Riley, playing a steady round, enters the final 18 with a score of 70, maintaining his position as the outright leader. However, Thorbjornsen’s remarkable performance – a bogey-free 63 – has catapulted him to the forefront, leaving him two shots ahead and poised to claim his first PGA Tour win. The 24-year-old’s clutch putt, a testament to nerves of steel, has ignited a furious battle for the championship.
Contenders in the Mix
Alongside Riley and Thorbjornsen, Cameron Young, Rickie Fowler, Rasmus Hojgaard, and Xander Schauffele are all within striking distance, each determined to seize the opportunity for a significant victory. Si Woo Kim also remains a formidable threat, adding to the intense competition.
Live Updates and Leaderboard
Golfweek will continue to provide comprehensive live updates, highlights, and the updated leaderboard throughout the final round. Fans can track every score carded at Detroit Golf Club via the live leaderboard. The tournament tees off at 10:45 a.m. ET, with CBS/Paramount+ and ESPN+ offering television coverage.
Ventura’s Consistent Performance
Kris Ventura, currently ranked fifth, is looking to build on his recent strong form, aiming to secure a top-15 finish after five consecutive weeks on the PGA Tour. He acknowledged the pressure, stating, “Obviously, my body’s a little tired, but more than anything I just miss my family. Daughter at home and she’s 7 months and then my wife, so it’s definitely not easy being away from them for so many weeks in a row.”
Updated Betting Odds
As of this morning, Michael Brennan currently holds the betting favorite at +300, followed closely by Davis Riley at +330. Cameron Young is a +500 shot, while Rickie Fowler sits at +1000. Xander Schauffele is priced at +1100, and Chris Kirk and Rasmus Hojgaard are both at +1800. Michael Thorbjornsen is a +2000 longshot, with Michael Kim at +3000 and Kris Ventura at +3500.
Tournament History
The Rocket Classic, established in 2019, boasts a rich history, with Aldrich Potgieter taking the inaugural title in 2025. Cam Davis secured back-to-back victories in 2024 and 2021, while Tony Finau and Bryson DeChambeau claimed the crowns in 2022 and 2020 respectively. Nate Lashley’s lone PGA Tour win came at the Rocket Classic in 2019. Cam Davis is the only two-time champion of the event.
Closing Remarks
With the threat of rain looming, the final round promises to be a dramatic and unpredictable affair. Michael Thorbjornsen’s stunning performance has undoubtedly injected a new level of excitement into the competition, and the race for the Rocket Classic title is far from over.