Bryson DeChambeau sought relief outside the ropes in the woods, allowing trainers to work on his tight hips. Soon after, he unleashed a powerful swing that resulted in a 347-yard drive, setting up a birdie opportunity.
DeChambeau showcased his power, birdies, and engaging play at the U.S. Open on Saturday. With a 3-under 67, he took a three-shot lead, positioning himself for another U.S. Open victory.
“I’m sticking to the same strategy for tomorrow: aiming for steady golf with precise shots,” DeChambeau remarked. “Hitting the middle of the greens and playing it safe.”
His performance at Pinehurst captivated the audience, with fans chanting his name by the end of the scorching day. DeChambeau thrives on the attention and reciprocates the love from his supporters.
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“It was incredible. I’m grateful to the fans for their support. It was truly a blessing,” he expressed. “They really fired me up.”
The sentiment was mutual. DeChambeau’s pursuit of a second U.S. Open title with a revamped game and physique, different from his “Incredible Bulk” persona at Winged Foot in 2020, holds significant promise.
The final round includes contenders Rory McIlroy (69), Patrick Cantlay (70), and Matthieu Pavon (69) trailing by three shots, poised to challenge DeChambeau for the coveted trophy.
“I appreciate the challenge Pinehurst presents and the need for focused attention on every shot,” McIlroy acknowledged. “This is what a U.S. Open should entail. It’s great to be in the mix.” DeChambeau, coming off a near win at the PGA Championship and a top 10 finish at the Masters, maintained a lead at 7-under 203. He remains the only player to achieve three consecutive sub-70 rounds at Pinehurst No. 2 in a U.S. Open.
Ludvig Aberg, the early leader from Sweden, struggled on the slick greens, resulting in a triple bogey on the 13th hole and a score of 73, positioning him five shots behind alongside Hideki Matsuyama (70).
DeChambeau attributed his hip tightness to his speed training regimen, prompting him to seek treatment after the 10th hole.
He rebounded on the 11th hole with a lengthy drive and a precise wedge shot, securing a birdie to reach 7 under, a first for the week.
Despite a few setbacks, including a double bogey on the 16th, DeChambeau showcased his resilience by finishing strong with a birdie on the 17th hole.
Pavon, a PGA Tour newcomer with a win at Torrey Pines, mirrored DeChambeau in avoiding over-par rounds throughout the tournament.
McIlroy and Cantlay, known adversaries, will be in the second-to-last group, each maintaining contention in their own way.
McIlroy surged on the back nine with solid putting, while Cantlay held his ground with crucial par-saving putts and a stellar birdie on the 17th.
