Shanghai's Hidden Grace Golf Club witnessed a thrilling second round at the 30th Volvo China Open on Friday, as Chinese golfer Li Haotong stormed into contention with an eight-under-par 63. Li's remarkable performance, featuring four consecutive birdies and a clutch eagle at the third hole, propelled him to a three-way tie for the lead at 10-under alongside Finland's Tapio Pulkkanen and Spain's Eugenio Chacarra.
Starting the day seven shots behind overnight leader Pulkkanen, Li electrified early-morning crowds with a back-nine charge. The 2016 China Open champion's precision iron play and steady putting kept fans on the edge, culminating in a dramatic 15-foot eagle putt that brought the gallery to its feet. "I focused on taking it one shot at a time," Li said after his round, acknowledging the support of local fans.
Pulkkanen, who opened with a tournament-record 62 on Thursday, struggled to maintain his dominant form but preserved his share of the lead through strategic par saves. Chacarra, fresh from his Indian Open victory last month, demonstrated why he's considered rising talent with four straight birdies from the fourth hole.
Wu Ashun, China's first Volvo China Open champion in 2014, remained in contention at four-under, delighting spectators with a delicate chip-in birdie at the 11th. The tournament continues through the weekend, with clear skies forecast for Saturday's pivotal third round.
