The DP World Tour in India just took a dramatic turn, and it’s not just about the leaderboard—it’s about luck, skill, and the razor-thin margins that separate victory from frustration. Here’s the kicker: Tommy Fleetwood, who stormed into the lead with a breathtaking 64 on Friday, now finds himself two shots behind Japan’s Keita Nakajima after a rollercoaster third round. But here’s where it gets controversial: was it sheer luck or divine intervention that saved Fleetwood’s day on the 18th hole? Let’s dive in.
In the scorching heat of Delhi Golf Club, Fleetwood’s overnight lead evaporated as Nakajima delivered a masterclass, firing a stunning seven-under-par 65 to seize control. Fleetwood, meanwhile, struggled with his putter, missing a string of short putts on the back nine. And this is the part most people miss: despite his frustrations, Fleetwood’s day could have been far worse if not for a miraculous break on the par-five 18th. His approach shot landed deep in the trees, but the ball bounced out, allowing him to salvage a birdie and stay within striking distance of the lead.
The leaderboard tells a tale of tight competition: Nakajima leads at 17 under, Fleetwood trails at 15 under, and Shane Lowry sits just a shot behind Fleetwood after a steady 69. Bold prediction: Nakajima’s bogey-free round has set him up as the man to beat, but with Lowry, Alex Fitzpatrick, and others lurking, this tournament is far from over. Fitzpatrick, for instance, carded a bogey-free 67 to tie for fourth place at 13 under, proving that consistency can pay off.
Rory McIlroy, however, finds himself further down the field at 10 under after a 68, leaving fans wondering if he can mount a comeback. Controversial question: Is McIlroy’s position a result of his own mistakes, or is the competition simply too fierce? Let’s not forget Nakajima’s flawless performance, which Lowry praised as ‘great,’ while also hinting at a potential challenge on the final day. ‘He’ll be hard to beat,’ Lowry said, ‘but there are a few of us not far behind.’
Fleetwood’s up-and-down day serves as a reminder of golf’s unpredictability. After a dazzling 64 on Friday, his putter went cold on Saturday, costing him dearly. Here’s a thought: Could Fleetwood’s mental resilience be the key to his comeback, or will Nakajima’s momentum prove unstoppable? As the final round approaches, one thing is certain: this tournament is shaping up to be a battle of nerves, skill, and perhaps a bit of luck. What’s your take? Do you think Fleetwood can close the gap, or is Nakajima’s lead too strong to overcome? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
