Wiesberger sets an example from the top end of the leaderboard

Bernd Wiesberger, the Austrian golfer who turned adversity into triumph, is playing some stunning golf at the Open de España presented by Madrid. After his second round, the European finds himself tied for second following a very solid day on the course. 10 birdies between Thursday and Friday find him on a total of -7. He is now one of the favourites for the title and to get his hands on the bonus prizes this week of a spot in the field at Augusta and Royal Birkdale in 2026.

Wiesberger’s story, though, is one of more than just golf. Born in Vienna, he took up the game when he was a toddler. In 2003 he broke his collarbone in a skiing accident that threatened to derail his golfing prospects. However, he used his time away from the slopes to work on his golf and came back stronger than ever, eventually winning his European Tour card in 2007.

That spirit of determination is now on display again at Club de Campo Villa de Madrid, where Wiesberger’s game seems to have clicked. He has been solid off the tee, his only significant blemish so far was a double bogey on the tricky 13th hole, and his putter is hot. A man with ice in his veins, and a calm nature that reflects his Central-European origins, this is the chance he has been waiting for all year. It is the first time in his career that has failed to post a top-10 finish in an injury-free season.

With his mind now focused on the remaining 36 holes, Wiesberger is not only defending his post at the top of the leaderboard, he is writing another chapter in his own personal story; from the accident that led him to professional golf to leading one of the DP World Tour’s premier events, showing the world that with enough perseverance any setback can be transformed into success.

With 8 DP World Tour wins under his belt and having been a member of Europe’s 2021 Ryder Cup team at Whistling Straits, Wiesberger is not easily intimidated. In 2022 he played alongside Jon Rahm on Thursday and Friday in Madrid. He is more than comfortable in high-pressure situations, therefore his hands will be steady come Sunday. Wiesberger is a clear contender for the title.