Tom McKibbin's commanding lead at the Link Hong Kong Open has been challenged by MJ Maguire, setting the stage for a thrilling final day. McKibbin, who has held the lead since the tournament's start, saw his cushion reduced to a single stroke after Maguire's exceptional performance on Saturday.
McKibbin responded to Maguire's challenge with late birdies, retaining a narrow lead heading into the final round. He carded his second consecutive 65, reaching 20-under for the tournament. Maguire surged into contention with a stunning 9-under-par 61, placing him just one shot behind at 19-under. Peter Uihlein is also in close pursuit, trailing by a further stroke. Veteran Scott Hend and Kiradech Aphibarnrat round out the top five, both at 17-under.
The stakes are high for Sunday's final round. In addition to the US$360,000 first prize, the winner will secure spots in both the 2026 Masters and Open Championship. For McKibbin, victory would mean joining his idols Padraig Harrington and Rory McIlroy as Hong Kong Open champions, and it would mark his Masters debut.
McKibbin acknowledged the pressure, stating that he came to the tournament with the mindset of giving it his best. Maguire, meanwhile, recognized the significant opportunity ahead, vowing to stay focused and take it one shot at a time.
Maguire's impressive round included a remarkable eagle on the par-4 11th hole, where his eight-iron shot from the trees found the bottom of the cup. This sensational shot was the highlight of a round that included seven birdies. McKibbin's third round was not without its challenges, including a bogey on the 15th, but he recovered with birdies on the 16th and 17th.
Other contenders, including Charles Howell III and Louis Oosthuizen, are also within striking distance. Scott Hend, a past champion at the Hong Kong Golf Club, is aiming to recapture the title.
Jason Hak Shun-yat will be the only Hong Kong representative on the final day.
The final round promises intense competition, with McKibbin and Maguire poised for a head-to-head battle for the title. The Link Hong Kong Open winner will not only receive the trophy and prize money but also earn a coveted invitation to the Masters and Open Championship.
