Turns out, you can still pull off a Tiger Woods impression if you hit the right stage. Ryder Cowan, bless his heart, must have had a vision of Tiger's iconic chip-in at the 1999 Memorial. He basically recreated the whole darn thing. And he really needed it. This was no casual stroll; it was a match play showdown at the U.S. Amateur against Miles Russell, who, by the way, is the third-ranked kid on the planet.
Cowan was clinging to a 1-up lead on the 17th hole, and his chip shot from the rough? Yeah, that looked like the perfect setup for a beautifully sculpted bogey. You know, the kind that makes you want to throw your wedge into the nearest water hazard. But then, cue the dramatic swelling of violins. He chipped it in. For par. To win the hole.
This little bit of magic, this sudden eruption of Tiger-esque brilliance, gave him a 2-and-1 victory. So, the next time you find yourself staring down a treacherous chip, just remember to channel your inner Tiger. Or at least try to picture yourself at Merion. Apparently, it works. For some people.
Now, Cowan moves on to face Justin Matthews. Because that's how this whole glorious, slightly baffling tournament unfolds. One match, one agonizing putt, one improbable chip at a time. If you're the sort who enjoys watching this particular brand of gladiatorial golf, the action is on Peacock and NBCSN. Just don't say nobody warned you.