Chile’s Joaquin Niemann has taken an early commanding position at LIV Golf New York after producing a brilliant opening-round performance at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster.
Niemann carded a bogey-free seven-under-par 64 on Thursday to establish a two-shot lead over Australian Lucas Herbert and England’s Ian Poulter as the tournament entered its second round.
The LIV Golf New York tournament is being played from August 6 to 9, 2026, at Trump National Golf Club Bedminster in New Jersey. It marks LIV Golf’s return to the New York region after a two-year absence.
Niemann’s opening round was particularly impressive because he managed to remain error-free while navigating a challenging course in difficult conditions.
The Torque GC captain’s seven-under 64 placed him at the top of the individual leaderboard and gave him a two-stroke advantage heading into Friday’s second round. LIV Golf’s official coverage described the performance as a statement opening round from the Chilean.
His position is also significant because Niemann has previously demonstrated an ability to convert strong opening rounds into tournament victories.
Lucas Herbert, who has enjoyed an excellent 2026 season, is among the players closest to the leader. The Australian entered the tournament with considerable confidence following his strong performances earlier in the LIV Golf season.
Ian Poulter is also within striking distance, leaving the Englishman in contention as the tournament moves into its second round.
The competition is not limited to the individual title. LIV Golf’s unique format also includes a team competition, with Niemann’s Torque GC taking the early advantage in the team standings following the opening round.
The tournament has attracted several of the biggest names in professional golf, making the four-day event one of the major attractions on this weekend’s sporting calendar.
The second round is scheduled for Friday, August 7, with play continuing as competitors attempt to close the gap on Niemann.
The Chilean, meanwhile, will be hoping to maintain the consistency that produced his opening-round 64.
A victory in New York would further strengthen Niemann’s reputation as one of LIV Golf’s leading competitors and provide another major achievement during the 2026 season.
With Herbert and Poulter only two strokes behind, however, the race remains wide open.
Several other established players are also within reach of the leaders, meaning Niemann will need another strong performance to maintain his advantage through the weekend.
As the second round gets underway, attention will focus on whether Niemann can protect his lead or whether one of his closest challengers can produce a low score and turn the tournament into a three-way battle.
For now, the Chilean has established himself as the man to beat at Bedminster.
