Golf star already plotting LIV golf return after being brutally axed by Saudi circuit

Branden Grace is already plotting a dramatic return to the circuit despite being brutally cut by the Saudi-backed breakaway league.

The South African golfer fell into the dreaded LIV 'Drop Zone' after some disappointing performances. But he is also pouring his efforts into a critical series of tournaments, with the aim of getting back into the LIV Golf League.

Grace has already earned a spot in the season-ending LIV Golf Promotions event in Saudi Arabia, where one golfer will seal their place on the league roster.

His performance at the International Series Thailand has offered some hope after rising to 11-under-par with a third round score of 65, which puts him in contention to win one of the biggest events on the Asian Tour.

With four more tournaments in the International Series and increased points for the International Series Qatar and the PIF Saudi International, Grace still has a chance to claim the top rank.

American player John Catlin currently sits at the top of the leaderboard, but Grace isn't far away. Looking ahead to tournaments in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, the 36-year-old is clear about what he needs to do to get his career back on track.

"My thing is, I am here [in Thailand], I am playing Qatar, playing Saudi, and then I am going to the promotions event. I have to do what I have to do," Grace said.

"Depending on what happens, I make my decision from there. I put myself in this position, so there is nothing I can really do about it other than practice and get ready for these events."

One distinct advantage for Grace over his competitors is his winning history in the Gulf, where he's twice claimed the Qatar Masters title.

"Qatar, I have won twice there, my last two times I have been there, so I am going for a little secret hat trick around there," he said.

"And with Saudi, I have not been to the new course, but I have heard good things about it. I have some good things to look out for."

While he's focused on making his way back to LIV Golf, Grace hasn't set expectations for next season if he doesn't make the cut.

"I am going to go to where I feel that I have the best chances of competing and winning golf tournaments," he added. "This is what it is all about - giving the guys opportunity. Like I have said before, this is a great stepping stone. It is great."