Proven International Series winner M.J. Maguire has shown growing composure under Major championship pressure, positioning himself for another weekend charge at the Singapore Open presented by The Business Times after three consecutive under-par rounds of 69, 69 and 71 left him tied 8th at five-under-par heading into the final day at Sentosa Golf Club.
The American, who won the Black Mountain Championship in 2024 and has multiple top-five finishes on The International Series including Vietnam in 2023 and Thailand in 2024, is once again in contention for one of the two Open Championship places on offer this week, a scenario that closely mirrors his near-miss at last year’s Link Hong Kong Open, where he finished tied third.
Despite a mixed ball-striking day in Round 3, Maguire leaned on his short game to keep his momentum alive.
“The wedge and putter were solid,” he said. “I didn’t have my best stuff off the tee or with the full swing, so it was a bit up and down. I started with a bogey and it was a bit of a grind all day. I didn’t feel 100 percent, but I just battled through it. Happy to come in with one under.”
Looking ahead to the final round, Maguire’s focus remains firmly on control and simplicity rather than scoreboard pressure.
“Just getting the ball starting on my intended line a bit better,” he said. “Visually seeing it start where I want it to. If I can hit more fairways, I can give myself more chances to attack the greens.”
Reflecting on his previous experience in Hong Kong, where Major pathways heightened the tension on Sunday, Maguire admitted he has learned to manage those moments more effectively.
“In Hong Kong, I was a bit in my head in the final rounds and felt really intense,” he said. “This week I’ve managed my game and mentality better. I’m not really stressed or feeling pressured. I’m just taking it one shot at a time and sticking to my process. If I play well, those things take care of themselves. I’ve never played a major, of course, it would be amazing, but I’m not thinking about it out there.”
Comfortable on Sentosa Golf Club’s Serapong layout, Maguire also praised the venue and conditions as he continues his Asia-based campaign.
“It’s my first time here,” he said. “It’s beautiful. Honestly, one of my favourite courses I’ve played in Asia so far.”
