Herbert leads British Open golf, equals record lowest score at a Major

Lucas Herbert of Australia delivered one of the most impressive scoring performances in Open Championship history on Friday, carding a 62 in the second round at Royal Birkdale. The 30-year-old came within a single putt of shooting 61, which would have been unprecedented at a men's major. His round tied the lowest score ever achieved in such competition, matching efforts previously recorded by Branden Grace, Rickie Fowler, Xander Schauffele, and Shane Lowry.

Herbert's performance propelled him to an eight-under total and a two-shot advantage heading into the weekend. American Sam Burns matched Herbert's 62 in a remarkable display of scoring that made Friday one of the most memorable days in the tournament's history. The leaderboard featured several challengers, with Americans Jackson Suber, Cameron Young, and Ryan Gerard positioned six strokes back, while Burns and South Korean Kim Si-woo sat one shot further adrift.

The day was not without controversy. Bryson DeChambeau, the twice US Open champion, incurred a two-shot penalty after rules officials determined he had inadvertently improved his lie by treading down grass at the fifth hole. DeChambeau finished at seven under after a 66, placing him among the contenders despite the penalty. Defending champion Scottie Scheffler, seeking to become the first player since Padraig Harrington in 2008 to win back-to-back titles, remained in contention at four under following a second consecutive 68.

Despite his exceptional round, Herbert appeared disappointed after missing a five-foot putt on the final hole that would have given him the outright record. In his post-round comments, the LIV Golf circuit player reflected on his performance, noting that his first 12 holes represented some of the best golf he had ever played. He acknowledged the missed opportunity but expressed gratitude for the atmosphere and support throughout his round.