THE MODERATOR: Let's welcome Sampson-Yunhe Zheng from China. A great bogey-free round today, 5-under-par 67 here at Abu Dhabi Golf Club. Take us through your round today.
SAMPSON-YUNHE ZHENG: Yeah, I think today for the most part I was able to do what I wanted to do, keep the ball in the fairway, keep it out of trouble, keep it on the green.
I had a few good looks that I missed, but fortunately I was able to make some coming in, so it was a good run today.
Q. That eagle on the last hole pretty much guaranteed your place in Sunday's final day at LIV Golf Promotions. Can you talk us through your emotions walking off 18?
SAMPSON-YUNHE ZHENG: Yeah, it feels great. I was in a bit of trouble on 17, almost made bogey there, but I was able to bounce back. It was a good third shot and hit a good second shot into 18, so yeah, really happy with how I finished.
Q. You're one of 13 players with a bye through to Round 2 this week. Did that extra day of rest contribute to your performance today?
SAMPSON-YUNHE ZHENG: I think so. I think it gave me a little advantage kind of seeing how the scores unfolded on day one and see how the course conditions were. Yeah, the rest of the day was good.
Q. You're flying the flag for China this week. How has the support been from family, friends, even friends back at home?
SAMPSON-YUNHE ZHENG: Yeah, it's really awesome. I have the media people here with me this week. My mom is here supporting me. It really means a lot to carry the Chinese flag.
Q. You're safely through to the final stage of LIV Golf Promotions tomorrow. What's the game plan going into 36 holes on Sunday?
SAMPSON-YUNHE ZHENG: Yeah, I think tomorrow is just going to be like today. It's going to be hot. It's going to be a long day, so it's going to be a bit of a marathon. Just stay patient and kind of let the course come to you.
Q. Only three spots up for grabs tomorrow; what would a place on the 2024 LIV Golf roster mean to you and being the first Chinese player on LIV Golf?
SAMPSON-YUNHE ZHENG: Yeah, it would mean a lot. It would be very special. I want to stay in the present, just one shot at a time, and see what happens tomorrow.
FastScripts Transcript by ASAP Sports