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McIlroy Battles Back with Bunker Birdie at Pebble Beach

Rory McIlroy chips in from the sand to close the gap on leader Jacob Bridgeman in dramatic fashion at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Rory McIlroy chips in from the sand to close the gap on leader Jacob Bridgeman in dramatic fashion at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Rory McIlroy made a crucial bunker shot to keep himself firmly in contention at the PGA Tour‘s AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, pulling within four shots of solo leader Jacob Bridgeman on Thursday.

The Northern Irish golfer demonstrated his trademark resilience with a birdie from the bunker, a highlight in a stretch of play that saw multiple hole-outs in rapid succession at Pebble Beach Golf Links.

## Dramatic Momentum Swing

The back-nine action at Pebble Beach produced several highlight moments within a 15-minute window. McIlroy’s successful recovery from the sand underscored the tournament’s ability to produce pivotal moments when the leaders begin to feel pressure from the field.

At four shots back, McIlroy remains well-positioned heading into the final rounds of the prestigious California event. The defending champion continues to demonstrate the consistency that earned him victory at this venue a year ago.

## Field Tightens at Pebble

Bridgeman’s solo lead reflects the competitive nature of the field at one of professional golf’s most celebrated layouts. The continued presence of world number one Scottie Scheffler and other top contenders ensures the final 36 holes will remain tightly contested.

With multiple players making impactful shots late in the round, Friday’s play promises to deliver the kind of compelling golf that defines this signature event.

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