Jack Thompson delivered his strongest round of the season at exactly the right moment, firing a seven-under-par 65 to take the halfway lead at the Saudi Open presented by PIF at Dirab Golf & Country Club just outside Riyadh.

The Australian, who entered the week sitting 62nd on the Asian Tour Order of Merit with the top 65 retaining their cards, now finds himself firmly on track to secure his status for next year and even vault into the top 10 with a potential victory.

Thompson stays grounded despite career-shifting opportunity

Thompson said he was focused on staying in the moment as he bids for his first Asian Tour title. He built his lead on a torrid stretch of five birdies in six holes on his second nine, adding to the three he made earlier in the round.

He briefly led by three before a bogey on his last hole trimmed the gap, while playing partner Bjorn Hellgren rolled in an eight-footer for birdie to pull within one shot.

Hellgren, Chang, and Youprayong join hunt as pressure tightens

Hellgren matched Thompson’s 65 after opening with an eagle and two quick birdies, marking a resurgence that he credited to taking much-needed time off to reset mentally.

Malaysia’s Ervin Chang carded a 64 and Thailand’s Runchanapong Youprayong shot 66 to stay in contention, with both players eyeing a late push to secure their Tour cards. Jazz Janewattananond also stayed within reach after a 68, continuing his steady return to form.

Japan’s Kazuki Higa, the current Order of Merit leader, moved into joint ninth with a 66, tightening his grip on the season crown and leaving closest rival Scott Vincent needing a win or runner-up finish to overtake him.