Patrick Reed Shines with Sensational 59 at Hong Kong Open
LIV Golf star Patrick Reed delivered a breathtaking performance at the Link Hong Kong Open, shooting an 11-under-par 59 in the third round to take the lead. Reed, who is eyeing his first win in four years, now sits at 18-under, three shots clear of his closest competitors.
The American started strong with five birdies in a row and closed with four consecutive birdies, securing his place at the top. His bogey-free round also included birdies on the 7th and 13th holes, showcasing precision and confidence throughout.
Reed, who nearly won this event in 2015, expressed his excitement about the round. “It was one of those days where everything just clicked,” he said, despite admitting to a rough warm-up. A 15-foot birdie putt on the final hole capped his incredible day.
Indian golfer Rashid Khan and Thailand’s Nitithorn Thippong are tied for second at 15-under. Khan carded an impressive 63, while Nitithorn shot 66. Defending champion Ben Campbell of New Zealand is a further shot behind after a 68.
This remarkable round marked only the second 59 ever recorded on the Asian Tour, though it won’t be officially recognized due to the use of preferred lies. The first was achieved by John Catlin earlier this year, coincidentally while playing alongside Reed.
Khan, fighting to secure his Asian Tour card, reflected on his return to form. “It’s been a while since I’ve been in contention. I’m just enjoying myself out there,” he said.
Meanwhile, Campbell lamented missed opportunities with his putter, despite solid ball-striking. “I hit it well enough to post a low score, but my putting let me down,” he shared.
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Australian Wade Ormsby, a two-time winner of this event, remains in the hunt after a 64, sitting six shots back alongside Hong Kong’s Taichi Kho. England’s Justin Rose, the 2015 champion, is eight behind after a solid 65.
As the final round approaches, all eyes are on Reed to see if he can close out this extraordinary performance and claim his maiden Asian Tour title.
