Caleb leads Saudi International
Caleb Surratt holds a narrow lead after two strong rounds
Caleb Surratt leads the Saudi International at 14 under after two rounds, following a 5‑under 66 in the second round at Riyadh Golf Club. The 21‑year‑old American, who shared the first‑round lead, pulled clear as Poland’s Adrian Meronk slipped down the leaderboard. Surratt’s surge follows a memorable showing at the same venue last year when he shot a course‑record 61 in the third round before losing a playoff to Joaquin Niemann.
Belgium’s Thomas Pieters matched Surratt’s second‑round 66 to sit one stroke back in second, while Anthony Kim produced his best round since returning to competitive golf in 2024 after nearly 12 years out with injury, firing a 7‑under 64 to move into a tie for third with Josele Ballester and Tyrrell Hatton, all two shots off the lead. Kim’s strong performance has added intrigue to the event as he closes the gap on the frontrunners.
The tournament has seen generally low scoring, helped by receptive greens and calm morning conditions, though gusting winds later in the day presented a tougher test for afternoon starters. A packed group of Asian Tour regulars and seasoned LIV Golf players sit within striking distance beneath the leading trio, keeping the leaderboard tightly contested and the title race open.
Organisers noted the Riyadh Golf Club course can yield birdie opportunities when conditions are favorable, but warned that shifting winds and tougher pin placements through the weekend could reshape the standings. Surratt’s familiarity with the course after last year’s standout rounds may prove an advantage, but with three rounds remaining the competition is far from decided.
The Saudi International doubles as a season‑ender for the International Series and is one of the late stops on the Asian Tour calendar, carrying a $5 million purse. With weather forecasts indicating variable winds and potential changes in course setup, contenders will need to balance aggression with consistency to secure a spot on the weekend leaderboard. As the event moves toward its conclusion, attention will centre on whether Surratt can convert his slender advantage into a breakthrough victory or whether experienced challengers will mount late charges to claim the title.
