Matteo Manassero Dominates BMW PGA Championship with Stellar 63
In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Matteo Manassero showcased his golfing prowess during the third round of the BMW PGA Championship, carding an impressive score of 63. This performance propelled him three shots ahead of renowned competitors Rory McIlroy and Billy Horschel at Wentworth Golf Club.
The day unfolded dramatically, beginning with heavy rain that transformed into radiant sunshine by the end. A total of six players shared the lead at various points throughout this exhilarating Saturday, but it was Italy’s own Manassero who ultimately seized control. His round included an eagle and six birdies, bringing his total to an astonishing 18 under par—setting a new record for the lowest 54-hole score in the tournament’s history.
At just 31 years old, Manassero has already made a significant mark on this prestigious event; he previously claimed victory in 2013. However, his journey has not been without challenges. After experiencing a decline in form that led to losing his playing rights five years later, he took a brief hiatus from professional golf before making a comeback on the Alps Tour. His perseverance paid off as he progressed through to the Challenge Tour and successfully regained his DP World Tour card for this season after clinching victory at the Jonsson Workwear Open in South Africa earlier this year.
As fate would have it, Sunday will see Manassero face off against McIlroy once again in what promises to be an electrifying final group showdown—just one week after their previous encounter at Royal County Down during the Irish Open.
Matthew Baldwin held onto fourth place with a score of 70 for a total of 14 under par while Antoine Rozner and Thriston Lawrence trailed closely behind.
Reflecting on his stellar third-round performance, Manassero expressed immense satisfaction: “That’s one of my best rounds ever,” he stated. “Given how challenging conditions were initially—with heavy rain—the course played soft yet long. Birdies were hard to come by today; however, I capitalized on my opportunities and delivered an exceptional round.”
Looking ahead to Sunday’s final round challenge, he acknowledged: “I’m aware of what lies ahead tomorrow; being in such a strong position is fantastic but certainly won’t be easy.” He added poignantly: “It’s been over ten years since I last won here; however, I now possess greater insight into golf and leading from atop the leaderboard—it’s never comfortable up there—but embracing it is key.”
“THE HOLE FELT AS BIG AS THE ATLANTIC OCEAN”
Billy Horschel also made headlines during Saturday’s play by achieving seven consecutive birdies throughout his round—a feat that speaks volumes about his current form as well as past success at Wentworth where he triumphed in 2021. He remarked enthusiastically about how everything seemed easier today: “The hole looked like it was as big as the Atlantic Ocean! I sank some long putts along with several close ones—it felt pretty special.”
Horschel reflected fondly upon memories from his previous win while acknowledging tomorrow’s competition will be fierce: “I often think back on my victory here when returning each year,” he said thoughtfully. “Tonight I’ll reminisce about those moments but know full well that tomorrow will require top-notch golf if I’m going to lift that trophy again.”
Rory McIlroy echoed similar sentiments regarding both course conditions and personal aspirations heading into Sunday’s finale—having previously secured victory here back in 2014 himself: “Today felt good ” said McIlroy regarding gameplay dynamics influenced by weather patterns affecting course softness due largely due rainfall earlier today.”
He continued discussing strategy moving forward stating confidently: “I managed through some early challenges before settling down nicely afterward—I didn’t make many mistakes overall despite missing out on certain scoring opportunities late.”
McIlroy concluded passionately expressing affection towards Wentworth itself noting ongoing personal ties saying proudly:”This place holds special significance for me—I’m practically becoming part-resident having built myself quite literally roots here! Winning again would mean everything!”
As anticipation builds toward what promises another thrilling conclusion awaits fans worldwide eager witness these elite athletes battle it out amidst picturesque surroundings steeped rich tradition within professional golfing history!