Fitzpatrick Takes One-Shot Lead at Open de France With 64
Matt Fitzpatrick carded a bogey-free 64 at Le Golf National to move to 13-under and lead the FedEx Open de France by one. Jeff Winther is second at 12-under after a 64, while defending champion Michael Kim trails by two. The second round was halted by darkness and will finish Saturday morning after fog delayed the start.
Fitzpatrick began the day at six under after an opening 65. Birdies on the front nine lifted him, and he matched Winther with an eagle at the par-five 14th before a long birdie putt at 16. A slip on his final approach forced a par save, but he stayed error-free.
Winther, twice a runner-up at Le Golf National, carded 64 and sits one back. Defending champion Kim is two behind after a 66. The round will finish Saturday morning; fog delayed Friday's start. Winther leads non-exempt players in the Open qualifying race, while Fitzpatrick already has a St Andrews exemption.
The result could matter most to players chasing Open Championship exemption and season standings, especially non-exempt contenders like Winther. A tight finish may draw more viewers and spectators to Le Golf National, potentially benefiting local hospitality and French golf’s visibility. Weather delays could disrupt travel, schedules, and fan experience, while a high-profile leaderboard may increase media attention around the weekend.