It seemed like smooth sailing. A fabulous tee shot and a near birdie miss at the 17th was followed up with an excellent drive and good approach into the 18th. But then a uncharacteristic three-put saw what should have been a five, or even six, shot lead being reduced to three – and nerve has been added to The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass.
New cards has been dealt, psychology has changed, and the question everyone is asking is whether Ludvig Åberg can withstand the pressure and capture his third PGA Tour title.
The first time I saw Ludvig Åberg play golf was when the Swedish Professional Tour visited Barsebäck. He displayed an iron play that immediately made me think of Henrik Stenson, but honestly Åberg's game looked even more promising. Of course he, as an amateur, won the tournament.
Since then things have moved quickly. Åberg turned pro, won on the DP World Tour, won on the PGA Tour and became a pillar of Luke Donald's Ryder Cup team.
Through the entire journey what has impressed most about Åberg is his ability to stand well grounded, and keeping his cool.
Now, when he has a golden possibility to follow in Stenson's footsteps and win The Players Championship the very same characteristic that has been the base to his success will again be fundamental.
Because from a psychological perspective everyone, including himself, is expecting him to win and thus the tournament is his to lose.
Not letting the mind rush ahead and keeping cool will be key.
Ludvig Åberg has many factors making his case come the back nine on Sunday afternoon. His driving of the golf ball is nothing less than incredible, which is a key keeping him out of trouble. As a member he has played many rounds at TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course and he knows Pete Dye's masterpiece like his back pocket.
But more than anything he is who he is.
I don't see anyone better equipped for the task than Ludvig, but that still does't make it easy.
And the fact remains, what should have been a large lead, and comfortable cushion, is now down to three shots.
That is no more than a hole, a ball in the water on 17 while your opponent makes birdie.
Drama is to follow.