Ángel Hidalgo capitalized on challenging windy conditions to secure a 6-under 65 score and top the leaderboard at the Spanish Open on Thursday. Despite finishing with back-to-back bogeys, Hidalgo’s standout performance included a career-best 30 on the front nine with four birdies and an eagle at the Club de Campo Villa de Madrid. The 26-year-old Spaniard recorded a total of six birdies and held a two-shot lead over Sepp Straka, Julien Guerrier, and Sam Bairstow.
In contrast, three-time Spanish Open champion Jon Rahm trailed by three shots, landing in a tie for fifth place after posting a 68. Rahm, who welcomed his third child shortly before the tournament, managed a strong finish with consecutive birdies. Despite battling flu symptoms and a late arrival in Madrid, Rahm aimed to meet the four European Tour start requirement for Ryder Cup eligibility following his participation in the LIV Golf Team Championship and subsequent appeal of European Tour sanctions.
Rahm, aiming to secure a historic fourth Spanish Open title, reflected on his performance, acknowledging the challenges posed by his recent health struggles and the demanding weather conditions at Club de Campo. The unpredictable winds posed a significant obstacle for players throughout the day. Tyrrell Hatton and Patrick Reed, fellow LIV Golf competitors, faced mixed results, with Hatton registering a 3-over 74 and Reed settling into a tie for 28th after a level-par 71 round.
Among other notable performances, Tommy Fleetwood’s strong finish with three birdies in his final six holes secured him a spot in a tie for eighth with a round of 69. On the flip side, Shane Lowry, making a comeback after a lengthy absence from the Spanish Open, struggled to find his rhythm with a 4-over 75. Defending champion Matthieu Pavon and seasoned European Tour winner Pablo Larrazábal also navigated the challenging course, with Pavon carding a 70 while Larrazábal stunned with an eagle from the rough 106 yards away on the par-4 15th hole.
Overall, the thrilling competition at the Spanish Open showcased the resilience and skill of golfers battling adverse weather conditions and personal challenges to contend for victory. With the tournament in full swing, fans eagerly anticipate further exciting developments as the competition unfolds.