Caleb Surratt and Adrian Meronk fired matching nine-under 62s to lead the opening round of the PIF Saudi International at Riyadh Golf Club. They sit ahead of Thomas Pieters (63) and Kiradech Aphibarnrat (64) in the season-ending event on The International Series. Both early leaders have strong history here — Surratt once shot a course-record 61 at this venue, while Meronk won the LIV Golf Riyadh title in February.
Surratt threatened another record after a blistering seven-under 29 on the back nine, including six straight birdies, before a bogey on the fourth stalled his 59 bid. The 21-year-old, still searching for his first LIV win, said he’s gaining confidence after several close calls this season. Meronk, meanwhile, said the course simply “suits my game,” praising the greens and his comfort on the layout.
Pieters closed with back-to-back birdies and credited a long-unused putter for his 24-putt round. Kiradech, also in early contention, continued his solid recent form and praised the improved green conditions, finishing with a 64.
The battle for the top two spots in The International Series Rankings remains wide open. Leader Scott Vincent and Miguel Tabuena both shot 67, while Yosuke Asaji carded a 72. With 324 points on offer for the winner, several players further down the standings still have a chance to secure a LIV Golf League place.
