Nicolai Højgaard Surges Up Leaderboard at Houston Open

Dane shoots tournament-best 63 to move within one shot of lead

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:27pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes and neon colors that convey the dynamic motion and intensity of a professional golfer's swing.Højgaard's sizzling third-round 63 has him poised to capture his first PGA Tour title at the Houston Open.Houston Today

Nicolai Højgaard, the 24-year-old Danish golfer, put himself firmly in contention at the Houston Open on Saturday with a blistering 7-under 63, the lowest round of the tournament so far. Højgaard's impressive performance moved him to 17-under par, just one shot behind leader Gary Woodland heading into the final round.

Why it matters

Højgaard is seeking his first PGA Tour victory, and a win at the prestigious Houston Open would be a major breakthrough for the young European star. The tournament is also a key event on the PGA Tour schedule, with the winner earning a spot in the Masters Tournament.

The details

Højgaard's third-round 63 included seven birdies and no bogeys, as he took advantage of the favorable scoring conditions at Memorial Park Golf Course. The Dane has been knocking on the door of his first PGA Tour title, with several top-10 finishes already this season.

  • Højgaard shot a tournament-best 7-under 63 on Saturday, March 29, 2026.
  • The final round of the Houston Open will take place on Sunday, March 30, 2026.

The players

Nicolai Højgaard

A 24-year-old Danish golfer who is seeking his first PGA Tour victory.

Gary Woodland

The current leader of the Houston Open, one shot ahead of Højgaard.

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What they’re saying

“I'm feeling really confident with my game right now. It's been a grind this season, but to put together a round like this on Moving Day is exactly what I needed.”

— Nicolai Højgaard

What’s next

Højgaard will look to carry his momentum into the final round on Sunday, where he will be paired with leader Gary Woodland in the final group. A victory would earn Højgaard a spot in the prestigious Masters Tournament.

The takeaway

Nicolai Højgaard's impressive performance on Saturday has set up a thrilling final round at the Houston Open, as the young Dane seeks to capture his first PGA Tour title and secure a spot in the Masters.