Joaquin Niemann delivered a masterful performance at the PIF Saudi International, carding a six-under-par 65 to grab the lead heading into the final round. The Chilean drained a clutch 10-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole to finish at 17-under, one shot ahead of Americans Peter Uihlein and Caleb Surratt.

Niemann has been grappling with disappointing finishes in recent tournaments, including a tied fifth place at the Australian Open and seventh at the DP World Tour Championship. However, his scintillating back nine today, highlighted by an eagle on the 15th and a closing birdie, puts him in prime position to claim his first 72-hole title since the 2022 Australian Open.

Uihlein, the leader of The International Series Rankings, maintained his stellar form with a 66, while Surratt stole the spotlight earlier in the day with a course-record 61.

“I thought it was going to be one of those days,” said Niemann. “But I stayed patient, and the shots started falling my way in the back nine.”

The final round promises high drama as Niemann faces stiff competition. Tyrell Hatton, Jason Kokrak, and Logan McAllister are just two strokes back, while New Zealander Ben Campbell and Thailand’s Ratchanon “TK” Chantananuwat are within striking distance.

Meanwhile, Uihlein, coming off a win at the International Series Qatar, has his sights set on securing the series title. “I’ll stick to my game plan and see how the leaderboard looks tomorrow,” said Uihlein.

Caleb Surratt, a 20-year-old LIV Golf rookie, also looms as a serious threat after a stunning round that included an eagle and eight birdies. “I finally found my putting rhythm,” said Surratt.

The stage is set for a nail-biting conclusion to the PIF Saudi International, as the world’s top golfers battle for supremacy in the Asian Tour season finale.