Anders Hansen tees off on the 18th (Getty Images)

The 46 year old decided to hang up his clubs after 419 events and three wins, although the door was always open for a return as he is exempt due to his place in the top 40 of the career money list.


This week is his fifth event of 2016, so fulfilling the minimum requirement, but even if he were to win at Victoria Clube de Golfe the Dane would not consider making a full-time return – and securing victory would be no mean feat with a hungry chasing pack snapping at his heels.


Korhonen, currently 116th in the Race to Dubai, is fighting for his card and the Finn signed for a 64 to sit alongside Hansen on 18 under, one shot clear of three-time Major Championship winner Padraig Harrington.


Defending champion Andy Sullivan, fellow Englishman Chris Paisley and Scot Paul Lawrie occupy third place on 16 under, one shot clear of another Scot, Marc Warren.


Nine birdies in a flawless display in Vilamoura ensured Hansen’s second 62 in 1,499 rounds on Tour, and afterwards the Dane revealed he will not feel any pressure going into the final day.