Staff WriterThe Delhi Challenge is turning heads this week in India, and Spaniard Quim Vidal is writing the script with a performance that could make even the gods of golf raise an appreciative eyebrow.
On a crisp day at Classic Golf & Country Club, Vidal fired a bogey-free six-under-par 66, catapulting himself to a three-shot lead heading into the final round.
After sharing the opening round lead in the Indian capital, Vidal now sits at 17 under par.
His nearest rival, England’s Joshua Berry, trails at 14 under following his maiden HotelPlanner Tour title at the Kolkata Challenge last week.
Vidal’s performance isn’t just about numbers—it’s a masterclass in calm precision and sheer determination that promises a thrilling finish.
“Pretty solid round, I played pretty good and made no mistakes,” said Vidal. “I had a good save on ten for par, that gave me a little bit of a push for the back nine, and I chipped it really close on the par fives, especially for tap-in birdies at 16, so really good.
“I stayed calm because the first nine holes it was a little bit slower but I finally made a good birdie on eight after staying patient, so just hit some good shots.”
That timely birdie on the eighth hole sparked a chain reaction, with Vidal adding further gains on holes 11, 14, 15, and 16 before rolling in another at the final hole.
His methodical approach and unflappable nature on the course have set the stage for what might be one of the season’s most captivating conclusions.
“The course isn’t easy, it is pretty firm and if you aren’t in a good spot, it is really tough.
Those 50-to-60-yard shots, you never know how it is going to bounce with the wind. You have to be smart and play your own game.
“It is very early in the season, so with a win you can play more relaxed for the full year, so it would be great.
I’ll probably just try to keep doing the same and put the ball in the right spots and stay efficient.”
Meanwhile, Berry is determined to secure back-to-back HotelPlanner Tour titles in India, adding extra spice to the contest.
Austria’s Lucas Nemecz, alongside fellow countryman Maximilian Steinlechner and American Davis Bryant—all hovering at 13 under—are also in the mix.
With Vidal, Berry, and Steinlechner teeing off in the final group tomorrow at 10:45 AM local time, the Delhi Challenge is shaping up to be an engrossing showdown.
Stay tuned as these competitors navigate a course that demands both artistry and precision, with every shot etching a new chapter in what is fast becoming a golf classic.
