The 2025 Zurich Classic of New Orleans kicked off its second round on Friday, April 25, at TPC Louisiana, bringing together some of the best golfers in the world for an exciting team event. Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, fresh off McIlroy's recent Masters victory, are looking to make a move after a solid start in Round 1.
McIlroy and Lowry, who were among the favorites heading into the tournament, began with a strong performance, recording three birdies over their first four holes. However, their final score of eight-under 64 left them tied for 28th place, six strokes behind the leaders. "We got off to a great start, but we need to keep the momentum going if we want to climb the leaderboard," McIlroy stated, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in this unique format.
Leading the charge at the Zurich Classic are Isaiah Salinda and Kevin Velo, who delivered a stunning 14-under 58 in Round 1, showcasing their skills and chemistry on the course. The brother duo of Nicolai and Rasmus Hojgaard follow close behind, sitting in second place at 13 under. Their performances have set the stage for an exciting second round, with many teams hoping to close the gap on the leaders.
Golf fans can catch the action live on Golf Channel, which will provide coverage from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET on Friday. For those looking for earlier coverage, PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ will offer exclusive streaming starting at 8:45 a.m. ET. NBCSports.com and the NBC Sports App will also feature a live simulcast of Golf Channel's coverage for viewers with an active cable subscription.
The tee times for the second round are packed, with the first groups set to take the course at 8:50 a.m. ET. Notable pairings include McIlroy and Lowry teeing off at 1:49 p.m. ET, where they’ll be looking to make a significant move up the leaderboard.
The Zurich Classic is not just about the competition but also about camaraderie, as it features a unique team format that allows players to work together to achieve success. Other notable teams in the mix include Collin Morikawa/Kurt Kitayama, J.T. Poston/Keith Mitchell, and Robert MacIntyre/Thomas Detry, all vying for a share of the impressive $9.2 million purse.
For the winning team, the prize is substantial, with each player receiving $1,329,400. The payouts for the tournament extend through the top 33 positions, ensuring that a significant number of participants will walk away with a financial reward for their efforts.
As the tournament progresses, the excitement builds. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see if McIlroy and Lowry can rally from their current position and defend their title successfully. With the stakes high and the competition fierce, the next rounds promise to deliver thrilling golf.
In the spirit of the event, McIlroy expressed his enthusiasm about returning to defend their title, stating, "Every time I step on the course with Shane, I feel we can achieve something special. We have a great understanding of each other's games, and that makes a difference in this format."
As Friday’s second round unfolds, all eyes will be on TPC Louisiana, where the weather is expected to cooperate, providing optimal conditions for the players. Fans are encouraged to tune in and witness the drama as it unfolds, with potential leaderboard changes and exciting play expected throughout the day.
The Zurich Classic is a highlight on the PGA Tour calendar, not only for its competitive spirit but also for the vibrant atmosphere that New Orleans brings to the event. With its rich culture and lively environment, the city serves as the perfect backdrop for this prestigious tournament.
As the tournament progresses, the excitement is palpable. Will McIlroy and Lowry find their rhythm and make a comeback? Can Salinda and Velo maintain their impressive lead? The answers will unfold as the second round continues, with many storylines developing as players take to the course.
Golf fans are in for a treat as the Zurich Classic continues to showcase the best in professional golf, with thrilling matchups and the potential for record-breaking performances. Stay tuned for updates and highlights as the tournament unfolds.
