Daniel Hillier’s KLM 5th place finish best finish of 2023
The KLM Open Champion Pablo Larrazabal collects his second trophy in three starts – image Getty Images
European Tour rookie, Daniel Hillier, recorded his best finish since gaining his full playing rights for that tour when finishing in a share of 5th place at this week’s KLM Open in Cromvoirt in the Netherlands.
The 24 year old New Zealander’s final round of 71 will secure a cheque for €66,600 and after three consecutive missed cuts the return to form comes at a crucial time.
Hillier’s best finish to date in a European Tour event was when 3rd while playing the 2021 ISPS Handa World Challenge without full playing rights but given this event comes after a very slow start to the year the result will provide both a financial and confidence boost for the talented Wellingtonian.
The former Australian Junior Champion, two time New Zealand Amateur Champion and two time Challenge Tour winner is considered New Zealand golf’s most exciting young prospect and it is hope that this week’s effort will be the catalyst for continuing good results this season.
Hillier finished four shots behind the winner, Spain’s Pablo Larrazabal who won his second event in his last three starts having also won in Korea a month ago.
