South African golfing sensation, Thriston Lawrence, has surged to the top of the leaderboard at the weather-disrupted Omega European Masters in Switzerland. The 2022 champion delivered a stunning performance on Saturday, carding a series of impressive birdies to establish a two-shot lead.
Due to fog delays earlier in the tournament, the third round commenced late, and Lawrence managed to complete 12 holes before darkness halted play. He began his round with a birdie at the challenging first hole and, after a minor setback on the second, embarked on a remarkable run of five consecutive birdies from the fifth hole onwards.
Lawrence continued his strong play with a birdie on the 12th, reaching an impressive 17 under par. He faces a short par putt on the 13th green when play resumes on Sunday morning.
Sami Välimäki of Finland is among Lawrence's closest competitors, sitting at 15 under par. Välimäki showcased his own birdie prowess, notching nine birdies in 12 holes, including six in a row on the front nine.
Two-time former champion Matt Fitzpatrick is also within striking distance, two shots behind Lawrence. Defending champion Matt Wallace and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen are one shot further back.
Lawrence's Key to Success
Lawrence started the third round two shots off the lead but quickly closed the gap with a spectacular 30-foot birdie putt on the first hole. Despite a bogey on the second, he regained his composure and took the solo lead with a remarkable 40-foot birdie putt on the fifth.
What's Next?
With play resuming on Sunday, all eyes will be on Thriston Lawrence as he aims to secure his second Omega European Masters title. The competition is fierce, but Lawrence's current form suggests he is well-positioned to claim victory.
- Lawrence leads at -17
- Välimäki and Fitzpatrick close behind
- Final round promises excitement