Clark Builds Commanding Lead at U.S. Open
Windham Clark heads into the final round of the U.S. Open with an impressive six-stroke lead, while Scottie Scheffler makes strides toward a career Grand Slam with a notable comeback at Shinnecock Hills.
Clark, who led after the second round, capitalized on favorable conditions and his exceptional scrambling ability, delivering a solid performance with a level-par 70. This result places him on the verge of securing his second U.S. Open title in just four years.
The American golfer enhanced his lead dramatically with a stunning eagle on the par-5 16th hole, following two birdies and three bogeys throughout the round. A final-hole bogey left Clark at seven under for the weekend, distinguishing him as one of only five players still under par.
Clark is in a strong position to secure victory, as 12 of the remaining challengers trail him by six strokes or more through 54 holes. He aims to win wire-to-wire, seeking his second major title in four appearances.
On Sunday, Clark will be paired with Scheffler, who is tied for second at 1 under, along with Saheeth Sagala, Sam Stevens, and Tom Kim. Scheffler, ranked No. 1 in the world, is chasing the elusive major title that would make him only the seventh player to achieve a career Grand Slam.
As Scheffler grapples with his position, two-time major champion Xander Schauffele also joins the pack at 1 under. Meanwhile, Matt Fitzpatrick faltered while playing alongside Clark, slipping to 1 over after a 4-over 74.
Clark Maintains Dominance Through Tactical Play
After a three-putt bogey at the start of the third round, Clark’s lead narrowed. However, he quickly regained momentum with a birdie on the fifth hole, bringing him back to 7 under. Despite some missteps, including finding a sand trap on the approach to the par-4 eighth, his strong performance on the back nine helped him maintain a comfortable lead.
Stevens made early moves with back-to-back birdies, momentarily reducing Clark’s advantage to four strokes. Nevertheless, Clark showcased his resilience with remarkable saves on crucial holes, including a 15-foot par putt on the 13th and a birdie on the 14th, ultimately expanding his lead to seven strokes.
A final three-putt bogey on the par-4 18th did cut into Clark’s cushion, though he still goes into Sunday with the largest lead at the U.S. Open since Rory McIlroy’s wire-to-wire win in 2011.
Meanwhile, Scheffler started his round in a difficult position, struggling after consecutive bogeys. However, he clawed back into contention with four birdies on the back nine, including an impressive chip-in from outside the 14th green, lifting him to 1 under.
Scheffler remarked on the challenge of catching Clark, emphasizing that a stellar round will be essential if he hopes to close the gap. Emiliano Grillo, with a round of 67, has also emerged into contention, joining the leaderboard alongside Schauffele, Keith Mitchell, and Sam Burns. McIlroy, who briefly threatened from within four shots, will enter the final day ten strokes behind.
