Hidalgo leads Spanish Open with Rahm close behind in pursuit of record

Ángel Hidalgo maintained his lead at the Spanish Open with three-time champion Jon Rahm close behind after the third round on Saturday. Hidalgo shot a 3-under 68 with five birdies and two bogeys, securing his position at the top of the leaderboard for the third consecutive day at the Club de Campo Villa de Madrid. This is a significant achievement for Hidalgo, as he has never placed in the top three in his 79 previous European tour events.
Rahm, who was trailing by five shots before Saturday’s round, narrowed the gap with an impressive performance that included six birdies. As a two-time major winner, Rahm is aiming to make history by becoming the first four-time winner in the 52-year history of the Spanish Open, having claimed victory in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
The Spanish golfer, a home favorite, previously won the LIV individual title and returned to Europe to fulfill the minimum requirement of four European tour starts necessary for consideration for the Ryder Cup next year. Despite facing European tour sanctions for his participation in the LIV circuit, Rahm appealed the decision and is now permitted to compete.
David Puig, another LIV player, is also in contention at three shots behind the leader. Patrick Reed, another LIV golfer, is tied for fourth place with Joe Dean, trailing by five strokes.
The Spanish Open continues to showcase thrilling performances from top golfers, setting the stage for an exciting final round as Hidalgo and Rahm battle for the prestigious title.