Australian PGA Championship: Adam Scott and Marc Leishman Eye the Title

BRISBANE, Australia (AP) – The final round of the Australian PGA Championship at Royal Queensland is shaping up to be an exhilarating contest, with Australian golf veterans Adam Scott and Marc Leishman just two strokes off the lead. Both players are well-known for their talents on the international stage, yet competition at home has been a rarity in recent years. The tournament marks a significant opportunity for local fans and players alike, with only two high-level professional tournaments left in Australia this season: the ongoing PGA Championship and the upcoming Australian Open at Royal Melbourne.

Scott, a seasoned 45-year-old golfer, demonstrated impressive skill during the third round, posting a commendable 5-under par 66. Meanwhile, 42-year-old Leishman wasn’t far behind, finishing with a 67. These performances have placed them in a tie for sixth place, stirring excitement among Australian fans.

Leading the Charge: European Tour Stars

As the competition heats up, the third-round lead is shared among three players: European Tour regulars David Puig, who shot a remarkable 65, Ricardo Gouveia with a 66, and Australian Anthony Quayle, who secured a 67. Each of these players carries a 54-hole total of 13-under par 200, showcasing their prowess in front of a local crowd eager for thrilling golf action.

Gouveia, who led the charge with his solid play, noted his effective strategy, saying, “I was very consistent off the tee and I hit a lot of greens, which is crucial on a course like this.” His performance put him in a position to challenge for the title, asserting his presence in the tournament.

Close Competition: The Pursuit of Glory

Adding to the intrigue are Min Woo Lee and second-round leader Kazuma Kobori, both just a stroke back from the leaders at 12-under par. Kobori, a New Zealander born in Japan, captivated the audience when he completed his second round with four consecutive birdies. He began the third round strong with two additional birdies but settled into a groove of 16 consecutive pars, demonstrating both persistence and challenge.

As the tournament progresses, Scott acknowledges the uphill battle ahead. “I’ll need a final-round ‘beauty’ to catch the leaders,” he stated, reflecting on the intensity of the race for the championship.

A Champion’s Journey

Scott, a former world No. 1 and 2013 Masters champion, is eager to reclaim his winning form. With 32 global victories under his belt, he hasn’t tasted success in a 72-hole event since the Genesis Invitational in 2020. Commenting on his round, he remarked, “It’s hard to complain about a 66. I need to have a really good round tomorrow, especially on the front nine.” His confidence is palpable, but he understands the challenges of a tightly contested leaderboard.

“Every shot counts, and I can’t afford to stall out. It’s too bunched at the top, so I’ll need a stunning performance yesterday,” he added, perfectly summarizing the high stakes involved.

Weathering the Storm

The Australian PGA Championship has been plagued by weather-related interruptions, adding complexity to the competition. Following a delay due to thunderstorms that suspended play on Thursday and forced nearly half the field to conclude their first round on Friday, Saturday saw another two-hour suspension. These storm delays have presented unique challenges for players but have also produced side benefits: softer greens due to the rain and lift, clean, and place rules on the fairways have contributed to lower scores overall.

Another Veteran Shines

Among those making a mark is Geoff Ogilvy, the 2006 U.S. Open champion and future captain of the International team for the next Presidents Cup at Medinah in Chicago. Ogilvy shot a solid 66 in the third round, placing him at 10-under par, just three strokes behind the leaders. His experience and skill keep him in contention as the final round approaches.

Excitement Builds for the Australian Open

The excitement doesn’t end with the PGA Championship. The Australian Open, co-sanctioned by the PGA Tour of Australia and the European Tour, is on the horizon. Notably, Rory McIlroy will headline this prestigious event, featuring a field of remarkable talent.

A Unique Fusion of Tours

The Australian PGA Championship serves not just as a platform for local golfers to shine, but also as a meeting point for global talents from the PGA Tour and European circuit. With the European Tour commencing its 2025-26 season just weeks after Rory McIlroy clinched the Race to Dubai title, it underscores the significance of the Australian PGA Championship as a vital contest in the professional golfing calendar.

The Thrill of Competition

With the final round of the Australian PGA Championship set to commence, the anticipation mounts. Players are faced with the challenge of not only battling their peers but also contending with the unpredictable elements of nature. It presents an opportunity for exciting golf which captivates fans both locally and globally.

Conclusion: The Quest for Glory

As Adam Scott and Marc Leishman aim for a triumphant finish, their quest for glory is emblematic of the determination and sportsmanship that defines the game of golf. The Australian PGA Championship is not merely a local tournament; it has transformed into a significant global golfing event, capturing the attention of fans worldwide. As the final round approaches, eyes will be glued to the Royal Queensland course, anticipating who will emerge victorious in this thrilling display of skill and competition.

The stage is set; the players are ready, and the golfing community awaits a captivating conclusion to this remarkable tournament. Whether it’s Scott capturing his first title since 2020 or a new champion rising through the ranks, the Australian PGA Championship promises unforgettable moments and exceptional golf.