Third round of China Open canceled because of thunder and lightning. Event shortened to 54 holes

SHENZHEN, China (AP) — The third round of the China Open was canceled Saturday because of thunder and lightning.

The European Tour announced it will now be a 54-hole event, with Sunday’s final round being played in a two-tee, three-ball format starting at 8 a.m. local time.

Sebastian Soderberg of Sweden leads on 16 under par and holds a three-shot advantage over Paul Waring of England at Hidden Grace Golf Club.

Soderberg did not hit a shot on Saturday. Only two groups got underway before play was initially suspended at 8.18 a.m. local time because of the dangerous situation caused by lightning in the area.

The weather did not improve and it was announced at 2.11 p.m. local time that the third round had been canceled.

The No. 98-ranked Soderberg has been runner-up in the last two events — the Indian Open and the ISPS Handa Championship. They are part of his five top-10 finishes in his nine tournaments so far in the 2024 season.

The China Open is back on the European tour schedule after an absence of five years.

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AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf