Thompson Leads at Halfway Stage of Saudi Open Presented by PIF

Australia’s Jack Thompson moved into the lead at the halfway stage of the Saudi Open presented by PIF, keeping his hopes alive of retaining his Asian Tour card for next season.

Thompson shot an impressive seven-under-par 65 on the second day at Dirab Golf & Country Club, just outside Riyadh, to take a one-shot lead in the season-ending tournament.

Sweden’s Bjorn Hellgren is in second place after also carding a 65, while Malaysia’s Ervin Chang (64) and Thailand’s Runchanapong Youprayong (66) are a further shot behind.

Thompson began the week ranked 62nd on the Asian Tour Order of Merit, with the top 65 players securing their playing rights for next year. His strong performance has put him in a comfortable position, with a potential win expected to lift him into the top 10.

Despite leading, the 28-year-old Adelaide golfer said he is staying focused and enjoying the challenge as he looks for his first Asian Tour victory.

In a positive sign for regional golf, five Middle East and North African players made the cut and advanced to the weekend rounds. They include Saudi Arabia’s Shergo Al Kurdi, Moroccan amateur Adam Bresnu, UAE’s Joshua Grenville-Wood, Qatar’s Daniil Sokolov, and Morocco’s El Mehdi Fakori.

Al Kurdi posted a one-under-par round to move to four under overall, securing his place for the weekend. He said he felt more confident in his game and believes he is well positioned heading into the final rounds.

Moroccan amateur Adam Bresnu shot a 72 to remain at six under par. Despite a tougher day, he stayed patient and was pleased to make the cut with two rounds still to play.

Meanwhile, Asian Tour Order of Merit leader Kazuki Higa of Japan shot a 66 and sits joint ninth, five shots behind the leader. His closest challenger, Zimbabwe’s Scott Vincent, will need a win or a second-place finish to overtake him in the season rankings.

The Saudi Open is part of Golf Saudi’s wider vision to grow the sport in the Kingdom and across the region. Through investment in facilities, player development, and competitive opportunities, Golf Saudi continues to support local talent and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position on the global golf stage.