Patrick Reed has set the stage for a dramatic finale at the Link Hong Kong Open 2024, carding a jaw-dropping 11-under-par 59 in the third round to take a commanding lead at the Hong Kong Golf Club in Fanling. The LIV Golf star’s incredible performance positions him three shots ahead of Indian Rashid Khan and Thailand’s Nitithorn Thippong, who are tied for second at 15-under.

Reed, who started with five consecutive birdies and finished with four in a row, became only the second player in Asian Tour history to shoot a 59, although the feat is unofficial due to preferred lies. He closed the round with a confident 15-foot birdie putt on the iconic par-four 18th hole.

“One of My Best Rounds Ever”

Reflecting on his historic performance, Reed said, “It was one of those days where everything clicked. I didn’t have the best warm-up, but I trusted my game. From the first tee shot, it just felt like I could make every putt.”

Reed, a former Masters champion, has been a regular at the Hong Kong Open for the past decade and is chasing his first Asian Tour title. He previously came close in 2015, finishing tied for third.

The Chase Behind Reed

Rashid Khan, who shot a bogey-free 63, is in contention for his first Asian Tour win in a decade. “It’s been a while since I’ve been in this position,” said Khan. “I’m just trying to stay comfortable and enjoy the moment.”

Nitithorn Thippong, the first-round leader, stayed in the mix with a solid 66. Meanwhile, defending champion Ben Campbell sits one shot back in fourth after a frustrating round. “My putting was cold today,” admitted Campbell, who carded a 68.

The Field in Pursuit

Former champions Wade Ormsby (64) and Justin Rose (65) remain in the hunt, while Hong Kong’s hometown hero Taichi Kho continues to impress, tied with Ormsby at 12-under.

Final Round Awaits

With Reed holding a three-shot cushion, the final round promises to be a thrilling conclusion to one of the Asian Tour’s most prestigious events. Can Reed maintain his lead and secure his first victory in four years, or will one of the challengers make a charge?

Stay tuned for all the action as the Link Hong Kong Open 2024 concludes tomorrow.