Max Greyserman still leads in Japan as Xander Schauffele makes his move

The American Ryder Cup player, still fresh off his country’s loss to Europe two weeks ago, produced a flawless round of eight birdies and no bogeys at Yokohama Country Club, climbing into a tie for second behind leader Max Greyserman.

Schauffele came out firing, collecting five birdies on his opening nine holes — including four in a row — before closing with back-to-back birdies to end the day eight-under and in the hunt for his first win of the season.

"It felt like a completely different course today," said Schauffele, who opened with an even-par round in windy conditions. "The calm weather meant good shots finally got rewarded, and I managed to capitalize."

With rain expected throughout Saturday, Schauffele said he plans to stick with what’s been working: "No big changes — just keep the same rhythm and approach."

Greyserman, who started the day tied for the lead, maintained his momentum with a bogey-free 63 of his own, highlighted by an eagle at the par-five fourth and six birdies to reach 12-under overall.

The American, runner-up in Japan last year when the event was known as the Zozo Championship, said he was pleased with every aspect of his game. "I’ve been solid all week — just need to keep fine-tuning and stay steady," he said.

Schauffele shares second place with Sweden’s Alex Noren and American Alex Smalley on eight-under, while defending champion Nico Echavarria sits a shot back alongside Kim Si-woo, Sahith Theegala, and Brian Campbell.

Collin Morikawa is three-under, with local favorite Hideki Matsuyama a stroke further behind.