First-timers often struggle to cope with the shifting winds and challenging greens at Kapalua but Hideki Matsuyama has, so far, thrived at the venue on his debut at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions.

Charmed by the spectacular views of the Pacific and nearby island of Molokai from the hilly Plantation Course, the 22-year-old has strung together rounds of three-under-par 70, 66 and 66 to hold a share of the third-round lead.

Matsuyama piled up eight birdies and a sole bogey with a near-flawless display of golf as he posted a 17-under total of 202 in the winners-only event to end a gorgeous day of dazzling sunshine level with American Jimmy Walker (67) on Sunday.