Kurt Kitayama Soars to Victory at 3M Open, Climbs FedEx Cup Standings

Kurt Kitayama has successfully reclaimed his spot among golf's elite with an electrifying performance at the 2025 3M Open, capturing his second PGA Tour victory in a thrilling competition. Kitayama's resurgence comes at a critical juncture in his career, signaling a return to form following his notable win at the 2023 Arnold Palmer Invitational and a decisive Top-4 finish at the PGA Championship the same year. Throughout the 2024 season, despite only securing a single Top-10 result and failing to make the playoffs, Kitayama displayed glimpses of brilliance. However, the recent triumph at TPC Twin Cities is a testament to his resilience and talent.

Kitayama's golf bag, featuring innovative equipment such as the Titleist GT1 Tour fairway wood and the TaylorMade P7MB irons, played a pivotal role in his victory. His performance was marked by impressive metrics—finishing first in Strokes Gained: Approach and birdies—demonstrating superior ball striking and exceptional consistency. Notably, Kitayama excelled in putting, ranking seventh in putts per GIR, a crucial component of his success. His strategic approach and meticulous preparation with his brother as his caddie, Daniel Kitayama, were instrumental in this achievement. This familial support provided a calming presence and stability on the course, crucial during high-pressure moments.

On Saturday, Kitayama delivered one of the most memorable performances of his career, shooting a career-low 60 during the third round, which included a stunning front-nine score of 28 and flirtation with the elusive score of 59. Though he didn't achieve a 59, his 11-under round propelled him ahead on the leaderboard, creating momentum that he carried into the final round. Kitayama's concentration was evident as he moved from 44th place, starting the third round, to securing a position for a course record with his Saturday performance. His strategic focus, coupled with tactical execution, enabled him to leverage the advantages presented by the front nine effectively.

Kitayama's tactical precision was exemplified by his control over the front nine of TPC Twin Cities, shooting sub-30 two days consecutively, a feat not accomplished since Charley Hoffman in 2015. This consistency facilitated his ascent to the top, overtaking co-leaders Akshay Bhatia and Thorbjorn Olesen despite their struggles. Kitayama's resilience was highlighted by his swift recovery from a bogey on No. 11, followed by vital birdies on 12 and 14, securing the lead against late competition from Sam Stevens.

The course showcased Kitayama's ability to withstand competitive pressure and seize opportunities, as evidenced by his elevation in the FedEx Cup standings from 110th to 53rd. His strategic prowess will serve him well as he approaches the final regular-season tournament at the Wyndham Championship, leading to the FedEx Cup playoffs and the upcoming Memphis tournament. Kitayama's technical refinement under the guidance of his coach, Chris Como, has significantly enhanced his driving and ball-striking capabilities, contributing to his recent form improvement, including a steady top-20 presence over recent weeks.

In his post-tournament reflections, Kitayama acknowledged both challenges and triumphs that defined his extraordinary journey, underscoring the significance of this win with remarks on the invaluable support from his brother, Daniel, who contributed to strategic decisions and maintained composure during intense moments on the course. Kitayama's determined pursuit of excellence and strategic adjustments mark the reemergence of a golfer set on competing among the best, solidifying his status and positioning him advantageously as the season reaches its climax.