PGA Valspar Championship: Im in the Driver’s Seat
PALM HARBOR, Fla. – March 21, 2026 – Sungjae Im is poised for a potential wire-to-wire victory at the Valspar Championship, held at the challenging Innisbrook Copperhead Course. After a careful return from a wrist injury, Im demonstrated impressive resilience and skill, holding a two-stroke lead heading into the final round. The competition is fierce, however, with veteran Brandt Snedeker and David Lipsky hot on his heels.
Im’s Commanding Performance
Im carded a 2-under 69 on Saturday, highlighted by a clutch 13-foot birdie putt on the par-4 18th. This performance brings his tournament total to 11-under 202. The 27-year-old South Korean player, a two-time PGA Tour winner (2020 Honda Classic and 2021 Shriners Children’s Open), has been remarkably consistent since his return, leading after the first two rounds in the demanding conditions.
“I wasn’t able to practice for two months,” Im explained. “So I think a lot of my shots that I didn’t like from last year I was able to, once I started practicing, I was able to correct and it’s just been consistently getting better.” He navigated the front nine with a 3-under score, thanks to birdies on the 1st, 7th, and 8th holes. Despite bogeys on the 12th and 13th, he finished strong with that crucial birdie on 18.
Snedeker’s Resurgence and Lipsky’s Challenge
Brandt Snedeker, a 45-year-old U.S. Presidents Cup captain playing on a sponsor exemption, is making a strong case for a comeback. He fired a 67, fueled by three birdies in the first four holes. Snedeker credits a recent switch to a mallet putter for his improved performance on the greens. He’s seeking his tenth PGA Tour title, with his last victory coming in 2018.
David Lipsky sits just behind Im and Snedeker, posting a 70 on Saturday. While his round was described as “up-and-down” with five birdies and four bogeys, his short game and putting kept him within striking distance. Lipsky is still searching for his first PGA Tour win.
Other Notable Players
Matt Fitzpatrick, fresh off a second-place finish at The Players Championship, is 8-under, alongside Marco Penge, both shooting 68 on Saturday. Brooks Koepka is tied for 16th at 3-under after a 71.
The final round promises to be a thrilling showdown. Im will undoubtedly feel the pressure of maintaining his lead, but he remains focused on his own game. Snedeker’s experience and recent putting prowess make him a dangerous contender, while Lipsky will be looking to capitalize on any opportunities. Stay tuned to the PGA Tour official website for live updates and the final leaderboard.
