Collin Morikawa is gearing up for his 10th tournament in 12 weeks as the Travelers Championship kicks off. His packed schedule is a result of the PGA Tour signature events being interspersed with golf’s major tournaments. Morikawa, who has achieved three top 5 finishes in his last four starts, acknowledges that it has been a grueling period of back-to-back competitions.
Reflecting on the condensed season, Morikawa noted the absence of a fall portion that would have typically counted towards the current season. Despite the challenges, he embraces the demanding nature of the sport and draws a comparison to other sports where athletes compete frequently. While golf weeks are longer and can be draining, Morikawa remains committed to playing in tournaments regardless of their position in the schedule.
In the 2023 Travelers Championship, Morikawa delivered a remarkable second-round score of 63 but fell short of making the cut due to a disappointing opening round. This year, however, the event is a no-cut tournament, giving Morikawa an opportunity to showcase his skills without the pressure of elimination.
As he enters his third consecutive week of competition, Morikawa’s recent performances have been commendable. A strong finish at the Memorial Tournament, where he secured a runner-up position, has set a positive tone for his upcoming challenges. Despite facing mental fatigue while contending, Morikawa remains focused on his game and ensures he gets adequate rest to maintain his performance levels.
Ranked No. 7 in the world, Morikawa’s solid showing at the U.S. Open, highlighted by a third-round score of 66, positioned him well within the competitive field. Although he finished tied for 14th after a challenging final round, Morikawa’s consistent play in recent tournaments indicates his ability to navigate tough competition.
Looking ahead to the Travelers Championship, Morikawa anticipates favorable conditions with soft greens conducive to low scores. Even if the anticipated rain fails to materialize, Morikawa is prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. With a strategic approach to his game and a focus on maintaining peak performance, Morikawa is poised to make his mark in the upcoming tournament and continue his impressive run on the PGA Tour.