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Surratt and Meronk Lead the Charge as Arab and Saudi Players Impress on Opening Day of the PIF Saudi International at the WOW Festival

NOVEMBER 19, 2025, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The opening day of the 2025 PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers delivered world-class drama as America’s Caleb Surratt and Poland’s Adrian Meronk surged to the top of the leaderboard with sensational rounds of nine-under-par 62, setting the tone for what promises to be one of the most competitive editions in the tournament’s history.

 

Surratt, who finished runner-up in 2024 after a dramatic three-man playoff, came within one shot of breaking his own course record (61), while Meronk—winner of LIV Golf Riyadh earlier this year—produced a flawless, bogey-free performance to join him at the summit. Both players showcased exceptional control and confidence on the pristine greens of Riyadh Golf Club.

 

Surratt reflected on his strong round:

“I'm just comfortable on this golf course. It fits me really well… I’m starting to peak and find good form, and today really showed the work paying off.”

 

Arab and Saudi Players Shine on Day One

 

The first round also highlighted the rising strength of Arab golf, led by a record seven Saudi players competing this week. Representing the growth of the national program, the Saudi contingent included: HRH Prince Khalid bin Saud Al-Faisal, Khalid Alqunaibit, Shergo Kurdi, Faisal Salhab, Khalid Attieh, Othman Almulla, and Saud Al Sharif.

 

Their participation reflects the rapid development of the sport within the Kingdom, as homegrown talent continues to gain exposure at world-class events.

 

They were joined by three Moroccan amateurs — Adam Bresnu, Youssef El Hali, and Reda El Hali — showcasing the growing footprint of golf across the Arab region.

 

HRH Prince Khalid bin Saud Al-Faisal said:

“I’m very proud. I can’t wait for the next generation to come through and take my place in these tournaments. The young talents coming up are exceptional.”

 

Faisal Salhab added:

“What Golf Saudi has done over the past six months is incredible… They truly see a bright future for golf in the Kingdom.”

 

Together, these players represent the broader mission of Golf Saudi and the Saudi Golf Federation: to build pathways for young golfers, elevate Arab talent, and empower regional players to compete at the highest levels.

 

The Tournament and WOW Festival Experience

 

The 2025 PIF Saudi International is one of the headline sporting attractions of the WOW Festival, part of Riyadh Season 2025. The festival brings together golf, luxury automotive showcases, and live entertainment, transforming Riyadh into a global celebration of sport, culture, and creativity.

 

Sponsored by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the championship underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to shape a sustainable, world-leading golf ecosystem — combining elite competition with long-term development initiatives and community engagement.

 

This year’s tournament features one of the strongest fields in Asian Tour history, including:

 

· 7 Major champions with 9 titles

 

· 46 Asian Tour winners with 112 titles

 

· 18 LIV Golf winners with 33 titles

 

· 23 PGA Tour titleholders with 88 titles

 

· 31 DP World Tour winners with 130 titles

 

· Players representing 33 nationalities

 

Play continues tomorrow at Riyadh Golf Club as global stars and local talent battle for position, with the championship running until November 22.

 

Tickets for the PIF Saudi International powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers are available at: www.saudiinternational.com

For further updates and information on Golf Saudi events, visit: www.golfsaudi.com