Scheffler makes move but US Open is Clark's to lose

Third round: Clark solidifies lead

Wyndham Clark remained firmly in control of the US Open after the third round, extending his lead to six strokes. The 32-year-old American carded a level-par 70 to become the first wire-to-wire leader since Martin Kaymer in 2014. He delivered a masterful scrambling performance at Shinnecock Hills, including an eagle on the par-5 16th, to position himself as the overwhelming favorite heading into Sunday's final round.

Scheffler and other challengers

World number one Scottie Scheffler is among a group of four players tied for second at one under par, alongside Sahith Theegala, Tom Kim, and Sam Stevens. Scheffler shot a one-under 69, bouncing back from bogeys on the first two holes with a strong back nine, including a chip-in birdie on the 14th and further birdies on the 15th and 16th. He played the back nine in 32 shots, matching the week's best score. Despite his resurgence, Clark's lead remained largely unchallenged.

Course conditions and historical context

The third round saw gusting winds up to 40 mph, making greens firmer and more demanding. It took 1 hour and 50 minutes for the first birdie of the round, and only one player, Emiliano Grillo of Argentina, managed to break par with a three-under 67. Historically, only once since 1934 has a six-shot lead been overturned in the final round of a major – Greg Norman's collapse at the 1996 Masters. Clark acknowledged Scheffler as the best player in the world but said he likes his chances. Scheffler noted he needs a great round to catch Clark.

Others fade

Rory McIlroy had a hat-trick of birdies but five bogeys on the back nine ended his hopes. Defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick started with three straight bogeys and finished eight shots back. Even those at one under know they need low scores and mistakes from Clark. The last US Open at Shinnecock Hills in 2018 saw Tommy Fleetwood shoot a final-round 63 to come from six back but finish one short.