Thompson finds breathing room in Riyadh

Australian steadies his season with a halfway lead when it matters most

Seoul, Korea - Australian Jack Thompson eased the strain on his season by charging into the halfway lead of the Saudi Open presented by PIF after a second-round seven-under-par 65 at Dirab Golf & Country Club, just outside Riyadh, on December 11.

Starting the week 62nd on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, with the top 65 retaining their cards, Thompson moved a step closer to security as he opened a one-shot advantage over Swede Bjorn Hellgren. Malaysia’s Ervin Chang and Thailand’s Runchanapong Youprayong sit another stroke back at the season-ending event.

Thompson, 28, chasing his first Asian Tour title, insisted his focus remained narrow despite the stakes. “Just not getting too caught up in everything,” he said. “Just really trying to be in the moment for every shot. I know that my game’s good enough to compete out here and win, definitely.”

The Australian built his round with three birdies on his front nine before surging with five birdies in six holes on his second, only stumbling at the last when a three-putt bogey trimmed his lead. Playing partner Hellgren, who also signed for a 65, closed with a birdie and earlier ignited his round with an eagle at the 10th.

Hellgren, a five-year Asian Tour member also seeking a maiden win, said a recent reset had paid dividends. “I couldn’t take it anymore,” he admitted, reflecting on a demanding run of tournaments before stepping away to recharge. Thailand’s Jazz Janewattananond, continuing a resurgence he believes has restored his old swing, is among those four back, while Order of Merit leader Kazuki Higa sits five behind after a 66, tightening the season-long duel with Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent as the year nears its close.