Keita Nakajima goes two up after the third round at the DP World Championship in India

Japanese golfer Keita Nakajima took an impressive two-shot lead after a remarkable third round at the DP World India Championship in Delhi, positioning himself for a potential second European Tour title. Nakajima’s bogey-free, 7-under-par 65 at Delhi Golf Club on Saturday set the stage for a thrilling final round, with European Ryder Cup stars Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry finishing second and third respectively. Keita Nakajima’s flawless round. The 25-year-old former top amateur showcased his skill with a remarkable performance, birdieing four of his first eight holes. His momentum continued with three straight birdies starting at the 12th hole, covering a combined 70 feet of putts. Nakajima’s composure shone through as he made his way to the finish and maintained his lead. Reflecting on his round, he credited his playing partner, Shane Lowry, for inspiration. “I love his swing speed,” Nakajima said, “and I copied him. So that’s why my swing was better than yesterday. And the mindset was great.” Tommy Fleetwood and Shane Lowry in Chasing Trailing by two shots, Tommy Fleetwood carded a 69 to secure second place. The overnight leader got off to a strong start with birdies on two of his first three holes and the par-5 eighth. However, a bogey on the 17th after a three-putt from 30 feet briefly disrupted his rhythm. Fleetwood bounced back with a birdie on the final hole to earn a place in Sunday’s final group. Shane Lowry, one stroke behind Fleetwood, also shot a 69, which puts him in third. The Ryder Cup star’s consistent play keeps him in contention, which begins an exciting chase on Sunday. Rory McIlroy falls back World no. 2 Rory McIlroy, the tournament’s biggest draw, carded a 68 but remains seven shots off the lead, tied for 15th. Despite his position, McIlroy’s presence continues to draw attention to the event, even though his chances of a comeback look slim. Keita Nakajima, chasing his first European Tour victory since the Hero Indian Open in March 2024, faces a formidable challenge from Tommy Fleetwood, fresh from a PGA Tour Championship victory in August and a standout performance in Europe’s Ryder Cup victory. Shane Lowry, known for his consistent play, remains a threat. Delhi Golf Club’s challenging layout will test the leaders’ accuracy and nerve in the final round. As the tournament reaches its climax, Nakajima’s focus and newfound swing speed could be the key to holding off his experienced opponents.