The 2025 Volvo China Open has burst into the limelight with fireworks on the leaderboard and drama unfurling across the lush green fairways of Enhance Anting Golf Club in Shanghai. Following two days of tough, high-class golf, it’s a three-way lead at the top – and the weekend is looking to be an absolute confrontation.

Finland’s Tapio Pulkkanen did not waste any time in making a statement. His opening round was nothing less than dynamite – a scorching 62 that established a new course record and propelled him to the lead. With his signature hat blowing in the wind and a red-hot putter in his hand, he pieced together a round full of assured birdies, crisp iron shots, and nerves of steel. It was the kind of round that makes everyone else look nervously at the leaderboard.

While Round 1 was Pulkkanen’s day, Round 2 was China’s Haotong Li showing the world his capabilities. Led on by the home crowd, Li shot a perfect 63 to leap from seven back into a tie for the lead. The highlight? A thrilling eagle on the par-5 3rd hole, followed by a stretch of pure accuracy and ice-cold putting. It was a performance soaked in confidence, and Li’s calm demeanour hinted that he’s only just warming up.

Spain’s Eugenio Chacarra may not have had the flashiest round, but his consistency is quietly deadly. He backed up a smooth opening 65 with a solid 67 to join the leaders at 10-under-par. No wild swings, no fireworks – just clean, composed golf. The kind that wins titles.

1. Haotong Li – 69, 63 (-10)
2. Eugenio Chacarra – 65, 67 (-10)
3. Tapio Pulkkanen – 62, 70 (-10)
4. Jannik De Bruyn – 69, 65 (-8)
5. Zecheng Dou – 70, 65 (-7)

Lower down the board, the chasing pack is full of talent, and only a few strokes separate the leaders from a very long list of starved contestants.

With two rounds remaining, the 2025 Volvo China Open is anyone’s for the taking. Li has the home crowd on his side, Pulkkanen has the opening fireworks, and Chacarra has the soothing beat of a waiting champion. And don’t dismiss the chasing names just off the pace – golf is a sport that relishes an upset.

Whatever the outcome, the final 36 holes hold the promise of suspense, drama, and some first-class golf in Shanghai.