VIRGINIA WATER, England (AP) – Matteo Manassero, once a golfing prodigy, moved closer to a remarkable comeback victory at the BMW PGA Championship on Saturday, 11 years after he first won the title at the age of 20.
Manassero shot a brilliant 9-under 63 in the third round, securing a three-shot lead going into the final day. A win would mark a career resurgence for the Italian, who was once expected to dominate the sport but saw his game collapse, dropping him to a world ranking of 1,705 and the third-tier Alps Tour.
Now ranked No. 101, Manassero returned to form this year with a win in South Africa, and he’s in sight of a huge victory over a field that includes top players like Rory McIlroy.
Reflecting on his journey, Manassero said, “Thinking of the difficult years, to be standing here right now in the lead — it feels amazing. My perspective has changed. I’m going to go out and enjoy tomorrow.”
Manassero capped off his round with a fist-pump after sinking a 12-foot birdie putt on the final hole, completing a birdie-birdie-birdie finish with a back nine of 31. He totaled seven birdies and an eagle on the par-5 No. 4, bringing him to 18 under for the tournament. “I have to be honest, one of the best rounds I’ve ever played,” Manassero said.
Rory McIlroy, the world No. 3 and 2014 champion, shot a 66 to tie for second place with 2021 winner Billy Horschel, who posted a 65 featuring seven straight birdies. McIlroy, who scrambled to save par on the 18th after finding water, praised Manassero’s resurgence, calling it “good to see him back playing the golf that he is and where he’s supposed to be.”
However, McIlroy remains hopeful: “If I get off to a fast start, it’s game on.”
Matthew Baldwin, who held the overnight lead, shot 71 to sit in fourth place. The No. 363-ranked player has an incredible backstory of his own, having delivered packages for Amazon just two years ago.
Manassero, who became the British Amateur champion in 2009 and quickly rose to world No. 1 amateur status, had won four European Tour titles by 2013, including the BMW PGA Championship. However, his career took a downturn, leading him to briefly step away from golf. A win on Sunday would not only cement his comeback but could also set him on the path for Ryder Cup qualification and a PGA Tour card.
“I know what I’m doing much more now,” Manassero said. “It’s not easy to compete at such a high level in tough conditions, but that’s what we work for. I’m just happy where I am.”