World No. 1 amateur breaks Tiger Woods record, sets NCAA marks in Hawaii

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Jackson Koivun, the top-ranked amateur in the world and a junior at Auburn, has had a historic start to the Amer Ari Invitational in Hawaii. Koivun sits at 20-under 124 after two rounds of play, which is the lowest 36-hole score in relation to par in NCAA history, besting Tiger Woods' mark of 18-under 126 set in 1996. Koivun has also shot consecutive rounds of 62, believed to be the first person in college golf history to accomplish that feat.

Why it matters

Koivun's record-breaking performance highlights his dominance as the world's top-ranked amateur golfer and his potential to make a significant impact at the professional level. His achievement also underscores the continued evolution and competitiveness of college golf, with players pushing the boundaries of what was previously thought possible.

The details

Koivun shot consecutive rounds of 62 to open the Amer Ari Invitational, adding his name to the NCAA college golf record books in the process. His 20-under total is the lowest 36-hole score in relation to par in NCAA history, besting Tiger Woods' mark of 18-under 126 set in the 1996 Pac-10 Championship. Koivun has 18 birdies, one eagle, and 17 pars through 36 holes, and his lead is only two shots over Arizona State's Michael Mjaaseth.

• Koivun shot consecutive rounds of 62 on February 6, 2026.
• The previous 36-hole scoring record in relation to par was set by Tiger Woods in the 1996 Pac-10 Championship.

What’s next

For Koivun to tie Ding's scoring record on Saturday, he would need to shoot 7-under 65 in the final round. He would usurp Ding on the throne if he signs for 8 under or better come Saturday.