LIV Golf Hong Kong 2026: Round 3 Moving Day Lives Up To Hype

Jon Rahm of Legion XIII delivered a strong performance in Round 3 of HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong 2026, improving his ball-striking—particularly with irons—while acknowledging a few errant tee shots on holes 1, 10, and 11. “Irons especially. It was quite a bit better than it was the first few days,” Rahm said. He cleaned up his game on a more difficult day and expressed optimism for a solid Sunday, noting the need to eliminate poor misses in pressure situations. Rahm reflected on his recent string of runner-up finishes, viewing them as validation of consistent contention rather than frustration. “You have to keep putting yourself in contention and giving yourself chances,” he said. “As long as I’m doing that, I’m playing good golf… it’ll come.”

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Thomas Detry and Thomas Pieters of 4Aces GC both surged into contention, with Pieters carding a 9-under round he described as some of the best golf he has played. “I did not miss a shot today,” Pieters said, highlighting a 50-footer for eagle on the 10th that set the tone. Detry maintained momentum from earlier rounds, crediting a long opening putt and solid play overall. “My game is in a really good spot,” Detry said. Both emphasized the thrill of the team aspect, with Detry noting how rewarding it is to track teammates on the leaderboard. “It really is an aspect of LIV Golf, and it’s pretty cool,” he said, as 4Aces positioned themselves well for a potential team title.

Harold Varner III of Smash GC posted a 7-under 63 to tie for the lead at 17-under, praising his putting improvement after a slow start to the season. “Just starting to see some putts go in,” Varner said. “Super solid golf.” He enjoyed the course and the team dynamic under captain Talor Gooch, describing their bond as motivating. “I love our team. It’s been a lot of fun,” Varner said. He highlighted Smash GC’s position at the top of the team leaderboard and looked forward to competing in the final group alongside Rahm and Detry.

Dean Burmester of Southern Guards GC reflected on a frustrating round where he failed to capitalize on scoring chances. “I’m gutted. I don’t feel like I did too much wrong,” Burmester said. “I hit some amazing golf shots out there. Just didn’t make any putts.” He made one birdie all day and acknowledged that others had stronger performances, but remained determined to lift his team on Sunday.

The final round promises intense competition, with multiple players in striking distance and the course still offering birdie opportunities despite expected tougher conditions. Rahm stressed the importance of aggressive play when chasing, while Detry outlined a simple plan: “There’s only one rule for tomorrow, and it’s to make as many birdies as we can.” With the team race also tight, Sunday at Hong Kong Golf Club is poised to deliver a dramatic conclusion to HSBC LIV Golf Hong Kong 2026.

Quotes, data, and photos courtesy LIV Golf