Things really heated up today in Japan! At the International Series Japan hosted by Caledonian Golf Club, Korea's Hongtaek Kim delivered a true battle of nerves, managing to maintain his lead for the third consecutive day – though no longer alone. Japan's Shugo Imahira snatched a share of the lead and now sits tied with Kim at the top.
Kim, who started the round with a one-shot lead, had to settle for a 1-over 72 and now stands at 10-under par. His playing partner Imahira carded a 71. Right behind them, Korea's Yubin Jang is lurking, just one shot back after a 71. Australia's Travis Smyth (68) and India's Karandeep Kochhar (73) are another shot back. This is the first stop on the International Series, the Asian Tour's high-level series that provides a direct pathway to the LIV Golf League – so the stakes are high!
Kim's Battle on Moving Day
It was a blustery day, and Hongtaek Kim had to fight on the back nine to defend his position. Bogeys on the 10th, 12th, and 14th demonstrated how challenging conditions were. Meanwhile, Imahira, Jang, and Smyth secured crucial birdies on the 18th. "The front nine was really strong, especially with the wind, but on the back nine I couldn't adapt as well," explained the 32-year-old Kim, who is chasing his second Asian Tour victory. His goal for tomorrow: "Just do the same, hit fairways and stay consistent."
The Competition Never Sleeps
Shugo Imahira also had his challenges on the closing holes before finishing with a birdie. The ten-time Japan Golf Tour Organisation (JGTO) winner aims to be the first Japanese player to win this tournament. He is definitely one of the favorites going into tomorrow. Alongside him, Yubin Jang is a true top talent on many people's radar. The 23-year-old, who turned professional in 2023 and celebrated two victories on the Korean PGA Tour in 2024, couldn't retain his spot on the LIV Golf League this year, but he has come back stronger than ever. And then there's Travis Smyth, who has emerged on the leaderboard after a 68 and is shining with surprising form. "I just have a lot of confidence in what I'm doing right now," said the Australian, who admitted he came into the tournament unprepared.
Tomorrow will definitely show who will hold their nerve and clinch the victory! It's going to be a thrilling final round!
