Justin Rose Storms to Six-Shot Lead at Farmers Insurance Open
In a display reminiscent of Tiger Woods' legendary dominance, Justin Rose powered through the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines, stretching his lead to six shots and leaving the competition in the dust. The 45-year-old Englishman, playing some of the best golf of his storied career, carded a 4-under 68 to reach 21-under par after 54 holes, shattering his own tournament record by three strokes.
A Tiger-Like Performance on Familiar Turf
Torrey Pines, the public gem in San Diego, California, has long been synonymous with Woods' prime. Rose, arriving late to the PGA Tour scene, never saw that era up close, but on Saturday, January 31, 2026, he channeled the spirit of the 15-time major champion. Starting the day with a four-shot advantage, Rose wasted no time pulling away, firing birdies on three consecutive front-nine holes that showcased his precision and boldness.
On the par-4 fifth, Rose stuck a pitching wedge to six feet for an easy birdie. He followed with a massive 7-wood on the par-5 sixth, landing pin-high for another tap-in. But it was the seventh hole that truly stunned onlookers. Facing a tucked pin guarded by a canyon breeze and a pesky tree, Rose lofted a high iron from the first cut of rough, soaring it to four feet. Fellow competitor Joel Dahmen, playing in the group behind, could only shake his head in awe.
"You don’t hit that shot in a practice round let alone when you have a six- or seven-shot lead on Saturday," Dahmen said. "At that point, that was just kind of like, ‘OK, you win.’"
Despite a few back-nine hiccups – including a bogey on the 12th after a wayward drive – Rose's ball-striking and short game kept him in command. His total of 195 through three rounds bested previous marks set by himself in 2019, Kyle Stanley in 2012, Woods in 2008, and Woody Blackburn in 1985. Notably, Stanley is the only one from that elite group who failed to close out the win, squandering a five-shot lead.
Historical Context and Rose's Resilience
Rose's journey in professional golf is one of perseverance. A former world No. 1, he has 11 PGA Tour victories, including the 2013 U.S. Open at Merion. Yet, recent years have been a grind, with fewer top finishes and questions about his form. This week at Torrey Pines, however, Rose looks every bit the elite player he once was. His familiarity with the South Course – a beast that tests accuracy over distance – has been key.
"I’ve enjoyed playing the golf course this week," Rose reflected post-round. "I want to continue to enjoy the week as a whole. And yeah, it’s another great round in good weather on an awesome golf course."
The Englishman knows the pitfalls of complacency all too well. In 2017, he capitalized on Dustin Johnson's collapse at the HSBC Champions, where the then-world No. 1 blew a six-shot lead. Rose won't tempt fate tomorrow. "There’s never going to be any complacency," he insisted. "I think there’s always enough respect for the game of golf in the back of your mind that you’ve got to do everything right tomorrow. You’re going to come out, have to be focused, have to play well."
Chasing the Pack: The Field's Perspective
While Rose revels in his lead, the rest of the field grapples with the daunting task ahead. Dahmen, who finished the day tied for second at 15-under, praised Rose's unflappable demeanor. "He hit at some pins that I was very impressed at, but then they went to 4 feet and he tapped it in for birdie," Dahmen noted. "You know you’re playing really well when you’re doing that. And it was kind of one after another."
Other contenders, including young guns like Collin Morikawa and established stars like Xander Schauffele, trail by at least six. The largest 54-hole lead here since Woods' eight-shot cushion in 2008 puts immense pressure on the chasers. Weather forecasts for Sunday predict light winds and sunny skies, conditions that could favor Rose's steady play but also allow a hot start from behind.
What Sets Rose Apart This Week
Analysts point to Rose's iron play as the difference-maker. Averaging just 1.2 meters from the hole on approach shots, he's been surgical. His putting, often a streaky part of his game, has been clutch, converting 85% of birdie putts inside 10 feet. Off the tee, while not the longest, his fairway accuracy (72%) neutralizes Torrey's punishing rough and native areas.
This resurgence comes at a pivotal time. With the majors looming – The Masters in April – a win here would catapult Rose back into the top 20 rankings and boost his confidence. For California golf fans, it's a home-state treat; Torrey Pines, just north of San Diego, draws massive crowds for its blend of challenge and accessibility.
Looking Ahead to Sunday's Showdown
As the final round dawns, all eyes are on Rose to see if he can seal the deal. The Farmers Insurance Open, presented by a major agricultural insurer, has a rich history of dramatic finishes. Rose, with his experience and current form, appears poised to join the winners' circle again. Whether he coasts to victory or faces a late charge, this tournament underscores why golf remains the ultimate test of mental fortitude.
For live updates, tune into Golf Channel or follow Everythiiing.com's coverage. Will Rose etch his name deeper into Torrey Pines lore? Sunday will tell.
This article was informed by Associated Press reports and on-site analysis from the Farmers Insurance Open.
