Bob MacIntyre overcomes snapping putter to become new world No 6
Oban man signs off with 63 in Sony Open as Genesis Scottish Open champion lands Honolulu win
Bob MacIntyre started his 2026 campaign by recording a top-five finish in the Sony Open in Hawaii despite having to use a back-up putter for the 36 holes after snapping his flatstick on Friday.
In an event won by Genesis Scottish Open champion Chris Gotterup at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu, MacIntyre signed off with a best-of-the-day 63.
The bogey-free seven-under-par salvo for a 12-under total earned the Oban man a share of fourth spot and, in the process, climbed from seventh to sixth in the Official World Golf Ranking.
“It was a great round of golf,” he admitted. “After about 12 holes, I felt I should have been nine-under par. I don't know if it's a good thing to say, but I snapped my putter on 17 on Friday afternoon. Missed a three-footer on 18 Friday afternoon, so doing that cost me a shot.
“Just a big, big reminder for me that attitude has got to be right for 72 holes not just 36. Because, at the end of the day, my attitude cost me this golf tournament and I can't be allowing that.
“You’ve got to be in the right position at the right time to allow a round like today to finish off. So a bit disappointed overall, but a great round of golf.”
MacIntyre made the long journey to Hawaii instead of joining the likes of Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry in the Dubai Invitational. The Scot is also missing this week’s Hero Desert Classic after opting to tee up in The American Express in California.
‘This is a great start....a lot more to come’
“Yeah, 100 per cent,” he replied to being asked if this outing can be a springboard for another big season. “This is one of my favourite golf tournaments of the year to be honest. This is one of the best golf courses we play all year. Any one of the guys out there can play this golf course on their day.
“You don't have to bomb it. You can be short. It's just a proper test of golf, more like what we would play in Europe when we go to Valderrama. You’ve got to shape the ball. Obviously the breeze gets up, but, yeah, this is a great start. A lot more to come.
“But always a massive reminder of attitude has to be spot on. Last year I felt like I did a great job of that. Yeah, I think expectations for the first two rounds have kind of affected me with that, but I’m starting to manage it better. Obviously nice when you're playing well. It's easier to manage. Something I’ve really got to switch on for the rest of the year.”
Gotterup signed off with a 64 to claim a two-shot victory, becoming the first player since Tom Kim to record three wins on the PGA Tour in less than 70 starts.
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