Xander Schauffele made the perfect birthday wish before his second round at the Zozo Championship

Xander Schauffele rang in his 31st birthday early at the Zozo Championship, celebrating with a cake before his second round on Friday at Narashino Country Club. After blowing out the candles, he made a birthday wish that every golfer, pro or amateur, could relate to: a smooth round free of mishaps.

Schauffele’s wish wasn’t just for good luck; it was a nod to the challenging first round he endured on Thursday, which saw him card a quadruple-bogey 8 after his ball landed at the foot of a tree. Undeterred, he attempted a daring recovery—twice—before ultimately conceding to the setback.

Fortunately, Schauffele’s birthday wish came true, as he rebounded with a flawless five-under 65 on Friday, finishing without a single bogey. His performance exemplified the unpredictable nature of golf, a game that humbles players of all levels with equal intensity.

For Schauffele, whose year has included significant achievements both individually and as a member of Team USA, it was the ideal gift: a reminder that in golf, persistence and resilience pay off.