Joaquin Niemann leads wind-blown Irish Open at Doonbeg
Joaquin Niemann dominated the final stretch of the Irish Open on Thursday, posting four successive birdies to lead the tournament with a 5-under 65. The strong winds at the cliffside Trump International course slowed play and prevented a quick finish. Competitors like Shane Lowry, Rory McIlroy, and Jon Rahm struggled against the wind, with Lowry finishing at 67, tied with Shaun Norris, and three others at 3-under unable to complete their rounds.
Patrick Reed, leading the Race to Dubai, shot a 68. Defending champion McIlroy made a double bogey on the 13th hole and finished at 69, noting the round's slow pace due to the severe conditions. Niemann, a nine-time winner in the LIV Golf League, praised his iron shots and finishing putts, while Meronk and Steinlechner were close to catching Niemann when play resumed on Friday.
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