Pieters seizes early top spot in controversial Saudi golf bowhome/Sports/Top Sports/Pieters seizes early top spot in controversial Saudi golf bowKING ABDULLAH ECONOMIC CITY, Saudi Arabia: Thomas Pieters fired a bogey-free seven-under-par 63 to leave the big names in his wake in the opening round of the inaugural edition of the controversial Saudi International on Thursday (Friday in Manila). Pieters made the most of kinder morning conditions to roll in seven birdies and take a two-shot advantage. Earlier, European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley defended the decision to hold the Tour’s first-ever event in Saudi Arabia. Pieters started from the 10th tee and made three birdies before making the turn and adding four more on his way back. Rose, on the other hand, blamed his putting for a round that saw him make just three birdies.

Source: Manila Times February 01, 2019 17:37 UTC