“Spaun’s Sizzling Start: JJ Spaun Fires 5-Under 65 to Claim Early Lead at Sony Open”

**Title:** Sony Open: J.J. Spahn Takes Lead in Thrilling Third Round, Several Players in Contention

**January 11, 2025, 09:08 pm Eastern Time**

The Sony Open at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu, Hawaii, is shaping up to be a closely contested finish, with several players vying for the top spot after the third round. J.J. Spahn shot a 5-under 65, thanks in part to a crucial birdie on the 18th hole, to take the lead at 13-under 197.

**The Third Round Highlights**

On a windy day at Waialae, several players were able to navigate the challenging course and put themselves in contention for the win. Patrick Fishburne finished the round at 68, while Eric Kerr shot a 67, with both players sitting one shot behind Spahn. Germany’s Stephen Jaeger, making a remarkable comeback, shot a 68 to move within two shots of the lead.

**Spahn’s Winning Shot**

Spahn’s final hole eagle came on the par-5 18th, which set up the final birdie. The shot itself was a remarkable up-and-down, with Spahn navigating the hole with ease to take the top spot.

**Course Challenges**

Waialae Country Club’s doglegged design, deep bunkers, and unpredictable Bermuda rough have been making it difficult for players to separate themselves from the pack. The course’s infamous quirks are keeping many contenders within striking distance, creating a thrilling finish.

**Leaderboard Standings**

The current standings are as follows:

1. J.J. Spahn – 13-under 197
2. Patrick Fishburne – 12-under 198
3. Eric Kerr – 12-under 198
4. Stephen Jaeger – 11-under 199

**Quotes from the Players**

* “I feel very calm and relaxed out there. It’s been a fun week in Hawaii,” Spahn said. “It’s always laid back and easy-going. I’ve always had that mentality on the course, and it’s easy to feel that way when things are going your way and you’re playing well.”
* “As soon as we turned the corner, it became more difficult. The wind was pretty strong on the left side, and the pins were on the left side, so it was a tricky setup,” Fishburne explained.

**Insights from the Field**

With several players in contention, the field is neck and neck going into the final round. Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley and Canadian Nick Taylor are among those two shots behind the lead, with ex-British Open champion Bruce Rymen (66) and Zozo Championship winner Nico Echavarria also in the mix.

**Bruce Woodland’s Perspective**

Lucas Glover and Gary Woodland have made strong recoveries to sit within three shots behind the leader. Woodland, who shot his second consecutive 66, has played at Waialae enough to know the unpredictable nature of the tournament.

“If you can get warm, you can run,” Woodland said. “I wouldn’t be shocked if someone comes from behind and posts a number. Everything is going in the right direction.”

**26 Frequently Asked Questions**

Q: Who is in the lead after the third round of the Sony Open?
A: J.J. Spahn is leading the Sony Open at 13-under 197.

Q: Who shot the lowest score on the day?
A: Stephen Jaeger and Patrick Fishburne trail by a shot.

Q: What caused the challenges on the course today?
A: A windy day with strong gusts on the left side and pins placed on the left made for a tricky setup.

Q: Who has the most birdies in the tournament?
A: Scottie Scheffler had nine birdies in his 62 and is two shots behind the leader.

Q: Which players are in contention?
A: Patrick Fishburne, Eric Kerr, Stephen Jaeger, Lucas Glover, Gary Woodland, Keegan Bradley, and Nick Taylor are among those within striking distance.

Q: What’s the significance of the course?
A: Waialae Country Club’s unique design makes it difficult to separate from the pack, often leading to a crowded leaderboard.

Q: What did J.J. Spahn say about his approach to the game?
A: Spahn stated that he feels calm and relaxed, drawing from his experience in Hawaii’s relaxed environment.

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**Conclusion**

The Sony Open is shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to the weekend, with several players within striking distance of the lead. J.J. Spahn’s birdie on the par-5 18th hole has put him in the driver’s seat, but with many still in contention, the outcome remains uncertain. As the field takes on the challenging Waialae course, the result will ultimately be determined by those who navigate the course most effectively in the final round.