LIV Golf Hong Kong 2026: Round 1 Delivers Low Scores and Standout Performances

Sergio Garcia opened his title defense in commanding fashion at HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong 2026, carding a bogey-free 7-under 63 to remain in striking distance of the lead. The Fireballs GC captain hit all 18 greens and described the Fanling course as one that suits his precision-based game. “It’s the kind of golf course that I enjoy,” Garcia said. “It’s got a vibe, kind of look a Valderrama kind of vibe, like traditional, kind of small greens. You don’t have to hit it super far. But you have to be precise.” He noted the unusually soft conditions after recent rain made scoring easier than normal, though he still managed tricky shots on holes 7 and 9 with creativity reminiscent of Seve Ballesteros.

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Dean Burmester posted his own low score with an 8-under 62 for Southern Guards GC, calling it a “flawless” performance aside from one mental error off the tee on the 9th. “I hardly missed a golf shot,” Burmester said. “I left a couple putts out there, but that’s golf, and I’m very proud of the way I kind of just hung together and kept pushing in birdies.” He highlighted the course’s perfect paspalum fairways and Bermuda greens, noting the softer, slower conditions allowed for aggressive play but warned that expected weekend wind would significantly toughen the layout.

Carlos Ortiz delivered the round of the day with a stunning 10-under 60, the highlight being a strong back-nine charge fueled by a chip-in on 11 and multiple approaches inside four feet. “It was a great round,” Ortiz said. “I hit it very close, like four or five times I just tapped it in. That doesn’t happen much, so it’s awesome when you don’t even have to get the putter out.” He credited a great par save on 9 and momentum from the chip-in for sparking the birdie barrage, describing the round as the realization of his daily goal to hit it close and make birdies.

Thomas Detry expressed relief and satisfaction after a strong start, having navigated a challenging travel week to arrive in Hong Kong. “I feel really good,” Detry said. “I arrived yesterday morning early, and I’ve had a chance to recover… I feel like I’ve played some really good golf and made some nice putts.” Victor Perez added a memorable highlight with a hole-in-one on the second hole, turning a level-par start into 2-under and providing a significant momentum boost despite an otherwise scrappy day.

The opening round showcased Fanling at its most scoreable, with soft greens and minimal wind allowing multiple players to go low. Garcia, Burmester, and Ortiz set the pace, while the field’s overall scoring reflected the favorable conditions. Players repeatedly noted the course’s precision demands and small greens, with Garcia emphasizing that commitment and accuracy remain essential even when scoring opportunities are abundant.

As the tournament progresses, attention turns to the weekend forecast. Burmester and Garcia both anticipated tougher conditions with increased wind, which could transform gettable holes into stern tests and separate the field. With 54 holes remaining, the early leaders have positioned themselves well, but the changing weather promises to challenge everyone chasing the HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong title.

Quotes, data, and photos courtesy LIV Golf