Fleetwood Leads After Round 2 in Abu Dhabi
The second round of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship saw a shake-up at the top of the leaderboard, with Tommy Fleetwood taking the lead. The Englishman, known for his consistent play, shot a brilliant 66 on Friday, moving him to the top of the leaderboard at 11 under par.
Fleetwood's Stellar Round
Fleetwood's round was characterized by excellent ball striking and impressive putting. He hit 14 of 18 greens in regulation and sank four birdies in a row from the 12th to the 15th holes. This consistent brilliance propelled him past the first-round leader, Viktor Hovland, who had a disappointing second round of 72.
A Close Chase
Despite Fleetwood's commanding performance, the tournament remains wide open. Shane Lowry and Ryan Fox are hot on his heels, both sitting at 10 under par. Lowry, a past champion in Abu Dhabi, shot a 68 on Friday, showcasing his ability to contend in this demanding course. Fox, a rising star from New Zealand, continued his strong form with a solid 70.
Other Notable Performances
Several other players are within striking distance of the lead. Rory McIlroy, looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season, sits at 8 under par after a second-round 69. Meanwhile, Collin Morikawa, the reigning Open Champion, is at 7 under par after a steady 71.
What to Expect in Round 3
The weekend in Abu Dhabi promises to be thrilling. Fleetwood will be aiming to maintain his lead and secure his first victory since the 2021 Nedbank Golf Challenge. However, the likes of Lowry, Fox, and McIlroy will be eager to catch him. The course will be playing tougher with the wind picking up, making every shot crucial.
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is one of the most prestigious tournaments on the DP World Tour, attracting some of the world's best golfers. With the tournament wide open, the final two rounds are sure to be filled with drama and excitement.