Seoul, Korea - In a stunning display of skill and nerves, Dan Erickson snatched the lead at the weather-affected Porsche Singapore Classic, concluding the second round with a spectacular birdie at the last hole. This move places him a shot clear at the top, in a tournament now cut to 54 holes due to adverse weather conditions.
Taking full advantage of his late start on Saturday, Erickson charted a course through the Laguna National Golf Resort Club with a masterful 64, putting him at 11-under-par. His performance saw him navigating nine birdies against a solitary bogey, catapulting him ahead of a tightly packed leaderboard.
The 26-year-old American, who secured his DP World Tour card at Q-School last November, has demonstrated significant growth. Despite a challenging season where he only made the cut in one of his first three starts, Erickson's recent strategy and form have brought him to the forefront, hinting at a promising finish in the tournament.
From the outset of the second round, Erickson was aggressive, birdieing the first three holes. A bogey at the seventh, a repeat of his first-round hiccup, did little to derail his momentum, as he made an immediate recovery with another birdie at the eighth. His climb continued with further birdies on the 13th and 14th, before a stunning long putt on the 16th saw him join the clubhouse leaders.
Erickson wasn't alone in making waves. Northern Irishman Tom McKibbin, who momentarily led before a bogey on his final hole of the day, shares a 10-under-par position with players like Adrien Saddier, Matthew Jordan, Fabrizio Zanotti, and Richard Mansell. The stage is set for an electrifying final 18 holes.
Meanwhile, English players Jordan Smith and Marcus Armitage, along with Spaniard Manuel Elvira, are hot on their heels at nine under. Amidst the professionals, local amateur Brayden Lee faced disappointment, missing the cut after a par at the last hole failed to secure his progression.
Reflecting on his performance, Erickson shared, "It felt great out there. It's all coming together—good breaks, solid shots, and precise putting. This course suits my style, reminding me of the American-style courses I’m accustomed to, which definitely plays to my advantage."
With one round left and a leaderboard that’s packed tightly, the final day at the Porsche Singapore Classic promises to be as unpredictable as it is exciting. Erickson, holding a slender lead, must now navigate the pressure and the competition, which is breathing down his neck. As the players tee off tomorrow, all eyes will be on whether Erickson can convert his current form into a victory, or if the chasing pack will overhaul his narrow lead.