The LIV Golf Houston event is shaping up to be a thrilling finale as a crowded leaderboard sees four players sharing the lead, with a dozen competitors within three shots of the top.
This intense competition unfolds at the Golf Club of Houston, where local star Patrick Reed aims for a hometown victory.
Reed, representing the 4Aces GC, has the advantage of local support and the comfort of commuting from his nearby home.
Although he has never clinched a professional win in front of his Houston fans, Reed is optimistic about his chances.
“Having all that support and also being able to stay at home, it means a lot,” Reed shared.
“Hopefully we go out there and … give them a show tomorrow and hopefully hoist that trophy.”
The Leaders: Casey, Meronk, Ortiz, and Puig
At the top of the LIV Golf Houston leaderboard, Crushers GC’s Paul Casey, Cleeks GC’s Adrian Meronk, Torque GC’s Carlos Ortiz, and Fireballs GC’s David Puig are all tied at 10 under par. Reed trails closely at 9 under, in solo fifth place.
Paul Casey, who has fond memories of winning the Houston Open on this course in 2009, remains cautious about relying on past success.
“I know what it takes, but it doesn’t necessarily make it any easier,” Casey remarked.
“This has always been a tough test of golf. … This golf course has teeth, and just because I’ve won doesn’t change anything.”
Casey shot a second consecutive 67 on Saturday, maintaining his steady form.
Carlos Ortiz, who triumphed in the Houston Open when it moved to Memorial Park in 2020, feels comfortable in this environment.
After birdieing four consecutive holes during his round of 68, Ortiz reflected, “I like the golf course and the people.”
“I guess maybe that’s the confidence. I don’t know, but I’ve been playing really good, and I think it’s just reflecting now.”
Adrian Meronk also sits atop the leaderboard after a solid performance. Despite a challenging start that saw him bogeying two of his first five holes, Meronk recovered to shoot a 69.
“Played quite solid,” Meronk said. “Could have been much lower. Missed a couple of putts coming down the stretch. But still pretty pleased with my round and my position going into Sunday.”
David Puig, buoyed by his recent success at the U.S. Open 36-hole qualifier, is also in contention.
Puig’s round included five birdies in his final seven holes, finishing with a 66. “It for sure gave me some confidence,” Puig said of his early-week performance, “and I’m glad it’s paying off.”
The Chasers: Niemann, Wolff, and More
Just behind the leaders, Torque GC Captain Joaquin Niemann and RangeGoats GC’s Matthew Wolff are tied for sixth at 8 under.
Niemann, the only multiple-time LIV Golf tournament winner in the field, aims to add another title to his collection after victories in Mayakoba and Jeddah earlier this year.
Five additional players lurk at 7 under, all within striking distance as they head into the final round.
Team Competition: Fireballs GC Lead
In the team competition, Fireballs GC, powered by 6-under 66s from Puig and Abraham Ancer, lead the standings at 26 under.
They hold a four-shot lead over Torque GC, while Crushers GC, 4Aces GC, and Cleeks GC are tied for third, another shot back.
The excitement is palpable as the final round approaches, promising a Texas shootout where anyone could emerge victorious.
With local hero Patrick Reed in the mix and a bevy of seasoned competitors at the top, the LIV Golf Houston is set for a captivating conclusion.
