Heading into the final round of the 124th US Open, American Bryson DeChambeau held a three-stroke lead with Rory McIlroy among the contenders at Pinehurst.
DeChambeau, the 2020 US Open champion, was on seven-under par 203 after three rounds, the only player to shoot under par in each of the first three rounds at the challenging 7,543-yard course.
Rory McIlroy, ranked third in the world and looking to end a decade-long major title drought, was at four-under 206 along with American Patrick Cantlay and France’s Matthiew Pavon.
Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, the reigning Masters champion, and Sweden’s Ludwig Aberg, ranked sixth, were both on 208.
DeChambeau had just 10 competitors within striking distance, with only eight players under par through three rounds, setting up an exciting final day of play.
Looking to join Brooks Koepka as a major winner among LIV Golf players, a victory for DeChambeau could boost him into the top 10 of the world rankings.
DeChambeau, who recently finished as the runner-up at the PGA Championship, has a chance to match the record for eight consecutive major rounds at 69 or lower if he breaks par on Sunday.
Despite dealing with right hip tightness, DeChambeau remains focused on the competition and looks forward to the challenge ahead.
As the final round approaches, all eyes are on DeChambeau and his closest competitors as they battle for the prestigious US Open title.
McIlroy, aiming to add to his major trophy collection, is prepared for the mental and physical challenges that the US Open presents.
With players like Cantlay, Pavon, Matsuyama, and Aberg in the mix, the final round promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
– Cantlay aims for Paris –
Cantlay, vying for his first major victory, is also focused on securing a spot at the Paris Olympics and will need a strong performance to achieve his goal.
Aberg, who led after 36 holes but faltered in the third round, has the opportunity to make history by winning in his US Open debut.
Matsuyama, looking to make history of his own, could become Asia’s first male multiple major champion with a strong finish at the US Open.
Despite being the pre-tournament favorite, world number one Scottie Scheffler faces an uphill battle on the final day, aiming to overcome a significant deficit.
As the final round unfolds, golf fans can expect an exciting finish as the players battle for the coveted US Open title.