LIV Golf made its much-anticipated return to Hong Kong on Friday, bringing world-class competition and energetic fans back to Hong Kong Golf Club. Leading the charge was Paul Casey, who quickly found himself at the top of the leaderboard, while his Crushers GC team started strong in their title defense.
Despite cooler-than-expected temperatures—dropping as low as 11°C (52°F)—players and spectators alike embraced the tournament’s thrilling atmosphere. Tournament officials were pleased with the turnout and expect even larger crowds over the weekend as the weather improves.
Much like last year, LIV Golf merchandise proved to be a major hit, with fans eagerly picking up team-branded gear, from hats and shirts to accessories representing the league’s 13 competing teams. While official attendance numbers were not released, it was clear that spectators from the Greater Bay Area and beyond came to witness top stars, including Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and Phil Mickelson, take on the challenging Fanling course.
Casey’s Strong Start Sets the Pace
Casey fired an impressive seven-under-par 63, placing him one stroke ahead of a group of six contenders, including Torque GC’s Sebastian Munoz. His Crushers GC squad, last year’s champions, finished the day tied at 12-under with Torque, narrowly leading Sergio Garcia’s Fireballs at 11-under.
The 47-year-old Casey, who has always enjoyed competing in Asia, shared his appreciation for Hong Kong and the course, highlighting the city’s unique energy:
“Fanling has great architecture and history, but more than that, it has a vibe. Sometimes an event just has that special energy… and Hong Kong is one of those cities I’d come back to in a heartbeat.”
Casey also has unfinished business from last year when he lost in a playoff to Abraham Ancer after making a dramatic greenside bunker chip-in on his final hole to force extra holes. On Friday, he once again demonstrated his short-game magic, chipping in on 18 to save par after finding the water with his second shot—a moment he considered the most crucial of his round.
“The par save on 18 was huge,” Casey explained. “It’s such a tough hole. I made bogey there in the playoff last year, so it’s always one we respect.”
Teammate Rivalry Fuels Competition
Three shots behind Casey is his Crushers GC captain, Bryson DeChambeau, setting up a potential team vs. individual title battle. DeChambeau acknowledged Casey’s stellar play but made it clear he’s aiming for the win himself:
“I’m proud of Paul for playing so well… but I also want to kick his a by the end of the week.”
With great competition, an electric fan village, and top-tier golf action, anticipation is building for an unforgettable weekend at LIV Golf Hong Kong 2025. Hong Kong Golf Club Captain Andy Kwok summed up the excitement:
“With a stacked leaderboard, incredible fan experiences, and a Peggy Gou concert on Saturday night, this weekend promises to be a thrilling showcase of world-class golf.”
As the tournament heats up, fans can expect more unforgettable moments, intense rivalries, and championship drama in the coming rounds. Stay tuned!
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