Steven Alker narrowly missed victory at the Trophy Hassan II, finishing second to Jimenez, marking his sixth runner-up finish since his last win over a year ago. Kiwis Ko and Xu struggled at the Founders Cup, while Fox lagged at the Phoenix Open. Meanwhile, Campbell began well in LIV Golf, and Hillier performed competently at the Qatar Masters, reflecting a varied success among Kiwi golfers.
Steven Alker remained in pursuit of success on the PGA Tour Champions but faced disappointment after finishing second yet again. At the Trophy Hassan II in Morocco, Alker was tied with Miguel Angel Jimenez at seven-under-par before Jimenez’s strong final nine holes secured him a two-shot victory, concluding at 11-under. This marked Alker’s sixth runner-up finish since he last won over a year ago in Hawaii.
Meanwhile, Kiwis Dame Lydia Ko and Fiona Xu struggled in the Founders Cup in Florida, with Ko, following a poor start, shooting a third-round 70. Xu also sat at one-under-par heading into the final round, while World No. 1 Nelly Korda positioned herself among the leaders of the tournament. Ryan Fox faced a similar challenge at the Phoenix Open, remaining well out of contention after finishing with an even-par round, totaling four-under for the event.
In Saudi Arabia, Ben Campbell has shown promise in his first full season with LIV Golf, wrapping up tied for 15th at ten-under-par, seven strokes behind the winner Adrian Meronk. Fellow Kiwi Danny Lee struggled with a two-over second round, ending in a tie for 33rd at five-under. Daniel Hillier is performing well on the DP World Tour, currently tied for 16th at five-under at the Qatar Masters, though trailing leader Haotong Li by eight strokes after three rounds.
The article covers the performances of New Zealand golfers on various prominent tours, specifically focusing on tournaments like the PGA Tour Champions, Founders Cup, and LIV Golf events. It highlights their positions, successes, and challenges faced during recent competitions, providing updates on key players. This context is crucial for understanding the competitive landscape and individual achievements in senior and professional golf.
In summary, Steven Alker continues to excel while feeling the frustration of runner-up finishes. Meanwhile, Kiwis Lydia Ko and Fiona Xu struggle in their respective tournaments, and Ryan Fox finds himself out of contention at the Phoenix Open. Conversely, Ben Campbell shows strong potential with LIV Golf, and Daniel Hillier remains competitive on the DP World Tour, highlighting a mix of highs and lows in Kiwi golf performances.
Original Source: www.nzherald.co.nz
