Arafi Masters the Moroccan Breeze to Edge Closer to Glory
Swiss star Tiffany Arafi holds her nerve and a three-shot lead as winds test contenders at Saidia
Seoul, Korea - In a sport where calmness under pressure often defines champions, Tiffany Arafi showed just how composed she could be in the swirling winds of Morocco. The 25-year-old Swiss golfer, professional since 2023, navigated the tricky breezes to card a steady 71 (-1), taking command of the inaugural Madaef Golfs Ladies Open by Saidia Resorts with a three-shot advantage after two rounds at Golf Lacs Saidia.
“It was way more complicated than yesterday,” said Arafi, whose thoughtful play included an impressive chip-in birdie on the 13th hole, brilliantly bouncing back from a dropped shot moments before. "I’ve not watched the leaderboard—just stayed process-focused and executed what my coach and I have been working on."
Behind her, Czech player Patricie Mackova and England’s Thalia Martin surged into contention with matching rounds of 69 (-3), each ending the day at one-under-par. Mackova's highlight came on the 15th, an eagle from six metres out that brought a broad smile, while Martin, fresh off a Sunshine Ladies Tour victory, relied heavily on a hot putter to manage the challenging conditions.
The final round promises plenty of intrigue as these skilled players chase the resolute Arafi. The breeze may swirl, but in Morocco, it's calm confidence that may just win the day.