Joaquin Niemann’s four-shot lead after 36 holes at the LIV Golf season opener has been cut in half even before he teed off in the final round.
He’ll start Sunday at the El Camaleon Mayakoba Golf Course with a two-shot lead after being assessed a penalty after his second round in Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
LIV Golf posted a message on X about the penalty, saying it involved a drop Niemann took from the cart path at the par-5 13th hole, specifically stating that he failed to drop within one club length.
Joaquin Niemann Assessed Two-Stroke Penalty Following Round 2 of LIV Golf Mayakoba. #LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/ATNNvlrgC4
— LIV Golf (@livgolf_league) February 4, 2024
Niemann is now officially at 11 under with LIV newcomer Jon Rahm and Dean Bermester at 9 under. Sergio Garcia is solo fourth at 7 under.
Niemann started the season with a 59 on Friday, the second sub-60 round in LIV Golf history.
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Niemann is seeking his first win on LIV. He won twice while a member of the PGA Tour. In December, he won the ISPS Handa Australian Open on the DP World Tour.