In what is probably his best start in the US Open, the Zimbabwean is joint second along with Kevin Na Fran Quinn, and 2010 champion Graeme McDowell as they brace for the second round that takes centre stage Friday evening.
The three, however, are three strokes behind overnight leader Martin Keymar of Germany who is on five under par 65.
Former world number one Phil Mickelson, and South Africa’s Charl Schwartzel, a former winner of the Zimbabwe Open, are on par just behind Jordan Spieth, Matt Kucher, Brendon Todd, Henrik Stenson, and Brandt Snedeker who are one stroke behind De Jonge on one under par 69.
Another former world number one Rory Mclroy, Chris Kirk, Louis Oosthuizen, and amateur Mathew Fitzpatrick are on one over par 71.
Defending champion Justin Rose is on two over par 72.
Three time US Open winner, Retief Goosen of South Africa is way behind in the perking order after a wayward three over par 73, eight strokes behind the leader and, five behind De Jonge.
De Jonge who has taken over the baton from Nick Price as Zimbabwe’s flag bearer on the PGA Tour is hoping for a better second round to close the gap on Keymar. De Jonge who won the Zimbabwe Sportsperson of the Year Award in 2012 has made it clear that he is looking forward to a top 10 finish at this highly competitive event.
Although missing Tiger Woods through injury, the US Open which runs until Sunday has drawn out the best talents in the sport.
Post published in: Golf