Chacarra and Li's Shanghai Sunday Spectacle
Home hero Li eyes emotional repeat as Spanish star Chacarra seeks to spoil the party
Seoul, Korea - As the sun dipped low over Shanghai's Enhance Anting Golf Club, the stage was beautifully set for Sunday's thrilling showdown at the Volvo China Open. China's golfing darling Haotong Li and Spain's Eugenio Chacarra are tied atop the leaderboard at 12 under par, setting the scene for an enthralling battle for supremacy in this prestigious event.
For Li, a victory would be doubly sweet. Not only would it mark his second triumph this year after capturing the Commercial Bank Qatar Masters in February, but it would also be a nostalgic echo of his maiden DP World Tour victory at this very event nine years ago. With hometown fans energising every step he takes, Li is determined to replicate history on home soil.
“It’s special to feel the crowd behind me," said Li. "Tomorrow, I'm ready to play my best golf. If I can do that, no one else can catch me.”
Yet standing resolutely in his path is Chacarra, the confident Spaniard who clinched his first DP World Tour title just a month ago at the Hero Indian Open. Despite battling a troublesome thumb injury, Chacarra remains undaunted, relying on precision golf and mental toughness to stay in contention.
“I had fun today despite the pain," Chacarra revealed. "I know the fans are rooting for Haotong, but if I stay focused, I've got every chance tomorrow."
Kiradech Aphibarnrat of Thailand lurks just one shot behind after a dazzling six-under 65, ensuring the final round drama will be captivating down to the last stroke.
As the final group tees off tomorrow, one thing is certain: Shanghai awaits a spectacular Sunday showdown.