Hojgaard Trails Woodland at Houston Open, Masters Berth Within Reach

Nicolai Hojgaard is currently three strokes behind leader Gary Woodland at the halfway point of the Texas Children's Houston Open, as he seeks to secure a spot in The Masters. Ranked 47th globally, Hojgaard needs to finish within the top 50 to receive an invitation to the Augusta National major. Following an impressive round-of-the-day score of 8-under 62 at Memorial Park, which included seven birdies and an eagle, Hojgaard is tied for second place alongside Jackson Suber. Woodland, who is pursuing his first PGA Tour title since 2019, is currently in the lead with a score of 13 under. Hojgaard has expressed his desire to participate in The Masters, stating that it is '100 per cent' on his mind, but focuses on his gameplay during tournaments. Meanwhile, Woodland, who underwent brain surgery in 2023, is looking to 'feed off' the crowd's energy to propel him through the final rounds. The competition will continue on Saturday, with round three coverage available on Sky Sports Golf.