26 years old Argentine, Emiliano Grillo had 2 consecutive bogey-free rounds and became a leader at the end of Day 2. It was heavy rain on Day 2 at the Dunlop Phoenix, but Emiliano kept himself from getting into much of a trouble. He had tough time at 2nd where he shot into the trees and at the 15th where his ball was buried in the sand. But Emiliano managed to save par on both of the holes and ended the day with 4 birdies and marking 67.

Emiliano is also enjoying the round with his caddie, Pablo who was a next-door neighbor to Emiliano's wife's sister in Buenos Aires. They found this coincidence when Emiliano first came to Japan tour in 2016 at ISPS Handa Global Cup. Since Pablo has been on Japan Tour caddie for 7 years, Emiliano requested to pair up with Pablo for the first time.

Rainy cold condition didn't bother Emilian, because it was a fun round with Pablo speaking in his native Spanish.

Emiliano started his professional career in EPGA at the age of 19. He has moved on to USPGA tour in 2025-2016 season and marked his first victory on the season opening event. He has been awarded the Rookie of the Year as well. Now he stands at 48th on the World Rankings. His Fedex Ranking is 12th. Emiliano was also in the same IGM academy with current Japan Tour Money Leader Shugo Imahira.

"I remember losing to Shugo in US Junior's best 16. He was already a great player. I am not surprised to hear that he is the money leader now."

Shugo of course remembers Emiliano.
"Emiliano was a really talented junior. He was much better than me. I am so glad to be able to play with him in the tournaments again."

It is great to see the rivalry between the young guns. Hope to see a great battle to come on Sunday afternoon.