Todd charges into the lead as Dechambeau reveals hope to live to age 140
Even by Bryson Dechambeau’s wacky standards his declaration that he intends to live until he is “130 or 140” breaks new ground in zaniness. As it is, the American must simply try to ensure his challenge for a World Golf Championship crown survives after a reality check in Memphis.
Dechambeau, the 26-year-old who has become one of the most talked about pros since the resumpby tion following the lockdown, struggled to a three-over 73 and on level par is 11 behind the WGC-FEDEX St Jude Invitational halfway pacesetter Brendon Todd.
In contrast, Rory Mcilroy recovered from his own opening 73 with a 66 that, at the very least, offers the world No2 hope with next week’s USPGA Championship goal in mind. Yet as ambitions go, every golfer, if not every human, must surely bow to Dechambeau.
The sport has become accustomed to his golfing revolution but the aim to defy Father Time is a new one for “The Mad Scientist”. “My goal is to live to 130 or 140,” Dechambeau told magazine. “I think it’s possible with today’s technology. I think somebody’s going to do it in the next 30 or 40 years.”
Todd might take some catching after a 65 moved the Pennsylvanian to 11 under par. The 35-year-old was outside the world’s top 500 in November, but is looking for his third title in a remarkable eightmonth period.
Countryman Rickie Fowler is the nearest pursuer on nine-under, following a 67, with defending champion Brooks Koepka in a group on seven over par after a mediocre 71. Matt Fitzpatrick is the highestplaced Briton on six under courtesy of a 64.