Wyndham Clark extended his lead to six strokes after the third round of the US Open at Shinnecock Hills, shooting an even-par 70 to maintain control of the tournament. The American's advantage is the third-largest 54-hole lead in US Open history since World War II.
Clark's Gritty Display
Clark saw his four-shot lead shrink to two after a bogey on the first hole, but he responded with a masterclass in survival golf. He made a birdie at the par-five fifth and repeatedly escaped trouble with timely par saves, converting putts from five feet on three occasions and rescuing pars from six, seven, and 14 feet.
“That’s what you have to make to win US Opens,” Clark said. “You’re not going to have too many birdie putts … you’ve got to make those kind of five- to 12-footers.”
Scheffler Emerges as Closest Challenger
Scottie Scheffler shot a one-under 69 to move into second place at one under par. The world number one opened with back-to-back bogeys but turned his round around with a birdie at the 10th, followed by three consecutive birdies from the 14th, including a 65-foot chip-in. A bogey at the 17th and a missed birdie chance from four feet at the last prevented an even lower score.
Sunday's final round falls on Scheffler's 30th birthday and Father's Day. A victory would complete the career grand slam, joining Gene Sarazen, Ben Hogan, Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy as the only men to win all four major championships.
“I’d rather be leading,” Scheffler said. “But I have an opportunity to go out there and have a great round and give myself a chance to win the tournament.”
McIlroy's Charge Fades
Rory McIlroy appeared ready to mount a serious challenge after three consecutive birdies from the fifth hole, including a 66-foot putt from off the sixth green. The surge moved him to two under par and within striking distance of Clark. However, his round unraveled with a bogey from 49 yards at the 10th, a three-putt at the 12th, and further mistakes at the 14th, 15th, and 18th, resulting in a three-over 73. He left the course without speaking to reporters.
Other Contenders
Sam Stevens, playing only his eighth major championship and still seeking his first PGA Tour victory, shares second place at one under with Scheffler, Tom Kim, and Sahith Theegala. Emiliano Grillo posted the day's low score with a three-under 67, joining a group at even par that includes Xander Schauffele and Sam Burns.
History favors Clark: 20 of 21 players who have carried a lead of six shots or more into the final round of a major championship have gone on to win. The lone exception is Greg Norman's collapse at the 1996 Masters.
“Scottie is the best player in the world, and he’s going to play probably really good. He always does,” Clark said. “But it’s nice to have a six-shot lead on him.” He added: “I’m not necessarily thinking about my lead or anything. If I go out and execute and go through my process and hit the shots I know I can hit, I like my chances.”
Tournament officials announced a record-equalling $22.5 million (£18.9 million) purse on Saturday, with the winner set to receive $4.5 million.
