Collin Morikawa Reveals Pre-Round Mindset Before Historic 61 at The Travelers Championship
**Collin Morikawa shot a 61 at The Travelers Championship on Sunday, July 13, 2026**-a round that left fans wondering how he did it. The American star revealed the simple but powerful mindset he shared with his wife before teeing off, offering a rare glimpse into the mental game of elite golfers under pressure.
Morikawa didn’t rely on pre-shot routines or technical drills. Instead, he focused on a single, deliberate phrase: *"I’m going to play with no fear."* The 27-year-old told reporters the mantra helped clear his mind of doubt, especially after a tough opening week at the Easton, Connecticut, course.
A 61 at The Travelers isn’t just a great score-it’s a statement. Morikawa, already a two-time major champion, has struggled with consistency in recent tournaments. This round proves he can still dominate when he silences self-doubt. His approach could be a blueprint for other players battling nerves in high-pressure events.
Morikawa started strong with a 6-under-par 66 in the first round, but a midweek slump saw him drop to 10th. Sunday’s explosion came after a slow start: he birdied holes 10 and 11 to take the lead, then closed with three straight birdies. His final round put him at **T-3 overall**, just two strokes behind leader **Xander Schauffele**.
The Travelers isn’t a major, but a strong finish here keeps Morikawa in the mix for the **PGA Championship** later this summer. His ability to turn off mental chatter could be the difference between another deep run and a missed cut. Fans will watch closely to see if he carries this mindset into his next event.