As the World Eventing Championships dressage wrapped up in Pratoni, the German rider snagged the individual lead ahead of cross-country day.
Great Britain moves into the overnight lead with strong performances on a blustery dressage day that some horses found a bit too exciting.
France finished second with 10 faults, Norway was third with 21 and the Swiss slotted into fourth with an uncharacteristic 25.
Eventing fans at the FEI World Equestrian Games Tryon 2018 were treated to one of the most thrilling afternoons of sport.