Can Teenager Manoj S Capture Victory at Trident Open 2025?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying third round at the Trident Open, 17-year-old Manoj S took the lead with a stellar five-under 67. As he approaches a potential record-breaking win, the competition heats up with seasoned players hot on his trail. Can he maintain his composure and secure this landmark victory?
Key Takeaways
- Manoj S leads the Trident Open with a score of nine-under 207.
- He is on track to become the youngest professional winner on the PGTI.
- Top competitors include Manu Gandas and Yuvraj Sandhu.
- Manoj's consistent performance features five top-10 finishes in recent tournaments.
- The final round promises high excitement and competition.
Chandigarh, Nov 13 (NationPress) The remarkable Manoj S, just 17 years old, delivered an impressive five-under 67 to seize the lead in the third round of the inaugural Trident Open, a prestigious INR 1 crore tournament at the Chandigarh Golf Club.
Manoj, who has a current score of nine-under 207 (69-71-67), now holds a one-shot advantage over his competitors.
At just 17 years, seven months, and 26 days, he is on the verge of becoming the youngest professional winner on the PGTI circuit. The existing record belongs to Shubhankar Sharma, who achieved victory at the PGTI Cochin Masters 2014 at 17 years, eight months, and 22 days. Additionally, Karandeep Kochhar holds the overall record as the youngest player to win on tour, having done so as an amateur at the age of 17 years and five months during the PGTI Players Championship at Tollygunge Club in 2016.
The former PGTI Order of Merit champion Manu Gandas finished the third round with a score of 69, placing him in second at eight-under 208.
There is a notable gap between the top two players and the rest, as five competitors are tied in third place, trailing by three shots at five-under 211. This group includes Chandigarh's own Yuvraj Sandhu (70), Akshay Sharma (72), Shubham Jaglan (71) in his first PGTI event, as well as Shaurya Bhattacharya and Mohd Azhar.
Earlier, Akshay Sharma and Manu Gandas finished the second round tied for the lead at five-under 139.
Manoj S, who has achieved five top-10 finishes in his last six PGTI tournaments, added four birdies against two bogeys on the back nine to secure his spot at the top.
On a day where conditions were more favorable, Manoj made three 10-foot birdies and capped his round with a 25-foot putt on the 18th hole, narrowly missing a hole-in-one on the Par-3 14th after his tee shot hit the flag.
Manoj stated, “I’ve come into this event with a solid run of form over the past few weeks, thanks to my excellent ball-striking. I’ve been hitting many regulations that create opportunities for me. Today, I was consistent with my hitting. The birdie on the 14th was a big boost as the tee shot hit the flag; it was one of my best shots this week.
“I’ll treat the final round as just another round of golf and avoid getting ahead of myself. This mindset has served me well thus far, and I intend to continue with it.”
Veteran competitor Manu Gandas, seeking his first victory since early 2024, managed four birdies along with a bogey, placing him as a significant contender against Manoj.
PGTI Order of Merit leader Yuvraj Sandhu rose seven spots to tie for third following a round of 70.
Point of View
The rise of young talents like Manoj S in professional golf showcases not only the potential of India's youth but also the evolving landscape of the sport. The PGTI continues to be a platform where emerging players can challenge seasoned veterans, enhancing the competitiveness and excitement of tournaments.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Manoj S?
Manoj S is a 17-year-old golfer from Bengaluru, currently competing in the Trident Open and is on track to potentially become the youngest professional winner on the PGTI.
What is the Trident Open?
The Trident Open is a professional golf tournament in India, featuring a prize pool of INR 1 crore and taking place at the Chandigarh Golf Club.
What records is Manoj S aiming for?
Manoj S aims to break the record for the youngest player to win a professional event on the PGTI, currently held by Shubhankar Sharma.
Who are the top competitors in the Trident Open?
The leading competitors include Manu Gandas, Yuvraj Sandhu, and Akshay Sharma, all of whom have shown strong performances in the tournament.
What were Manoj S's scores in the tournament?
Manoj S's scores in the tournament so far are 69 in the first round, 71 in the second round, and 67 in the third round, totaling nine-under 207.
