Sam Burns Nears Glory at the US Open: Leads After an Intense Day at Oakmont
Oakmont, Pa. – Sam Burns demonstrated composure and precision on a challenging Oakmont course, culminating a day with a 69 (-1) that places him at the top of the US Open. Burns, with two notable stumbles, achieved a spectacular putt of over 18 meters on the final hole, securing a crucial advantage for the decisive round. Burns, who is still seeking his first major title in his previous 20 participations, will face the pressure on Sunday alongside Adam Scott. The 44-year-old Australian, with experience in Majors, is one stroke away after an outstanding performance. Scott, winner of the Masters 12 years ago, showed impeccable play, registering a 67. The competition is shaping up to be intense, with only four players under par. Burns leads with a cumulative score of -4 (206), seeking his sixth title on the PGA Tour, the last one more than two years ago. J.J. Spaun, who has had a solid performance, stayed close to Burns, finishing one stroke behind after a 69. Spaun highlighted the strategic nature of the course: “You have to play this course. Every shot demands a lot.” Viktor Hovland also remains in the fight, showing resilience and consistent play, despite a complicated start. Hovland achieved a 70 and is three strokes off the top. “I know I have a chance tomorrow, and if I play a good round, anything can happen,” Hovland commented.Carlos Ortiz delivered an outstanding performance, with 30 consecutive holes without bogeys, finishing with a 67 and placing himself in a promising position. Scottie Scheffler, the world’s number one, failed to maintain the expected pace, finishing with a 70 and remaining eight strokes behind Burns. Scheffler acknowledged his situation: “I put myself in this position. It’s not the position I want to be in, but I’ve done a good job of staying in the tournament.” The third round unfolded without significant meteorological interruptions, with the Oakmont field showing challenging conditions due to the rain. Despite the difficulties, Burns demonstrated his determination, displaying strategic and precise play. Burns, 28, demonstrated his ambition to join the list of young Americans seeking a major title. On the 3rd hole, he avoided a tricky shot by directing his drive to the adjacent fairway. He achieved key birdies and remained calm to secure the lead, including a final 4-foot putt to close the round.I am well aware that I have an opportunity tomorrow, and if I play a low round of golf tomorrow, then anything can happen. But there are many good players around me. Adam Scott played a brilliant round today, he simply didn’t miss any shots. That forces me to play really good golf tomorrow.
Viktor Hovland
