SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — Wyndham Clark demonstrated remarkable endurance on Saturday at Shinnecock Hills during the U.S. Open. Despite the challenging course, Clark managed a series of par saves that kept him ahead while Scottie Scheffler advanced his position. Clark’s impressive play included hitting a fairway metal to 4 feet for an eagle on the par-5 16th hole, resulting in an even-par 70. This score gave him a six-shot lead, a margin no player has lost in the 125-year history of the tournament.
Historically, Greg Norman is the only player to lose a six-shot lead in any major tournament, during the 1996 Masters. As Scottie Scheffler acknowledged the crowd after a birdie on the 16th during the third round, Clark was finishing strong at 7-under 203, the lowest 54-hole score recorded at Shinnecock Hills.
Clark is now poised to secure another U.S. Open title, adding to his previous victory at Los Angeles Country Club in 2023. Scheffler, currently ranked No. 1 in the world, aims to seize this opportunity to turn Sunday into an unforgettable day. Scheffler has a chance, although slim, to complete the career Grand Slam, coincidentally on his 30th birthday, which also falls on Father’s Day.
“There’s a lot of stuff going on,” Scheffler expressed with a smile during his NBC interview. “A special day. The tournament means a lot to me. Going to go out there and try to do my best and execute. I’ve been fighting like heck all week to stay in this tournament.”
Scheffler began the third round nine shots behind after starting with two bogeys, but rallied by shooting a strong 32 on the back nine. His comeback included chipping in from 65 feet on the 14th hole, initiating three consecutive birdies. Despite missing a 4-foot birdie putt on the last hole, Scheffler moved into the final group as the Shinnecock Hills course proved challenging for other players.
Sam Stevens, who had closed within two shots of Clark, struggled on the back nine with three consecutive bogeys, ending his round with six straight pars for a 72. Tom Kim also faced difficulties, dropping two shots at crucial moments, finishing with a 72 score. Sahith Theegala had a consistent performance with one birdie and one bogey, ending with a 70. These scores label Shinnecock Hills as particularly challenging during the U.S. Open, with only five players under par heading into the final round.