On Saturday, Wyndham Clark showcased impressive resilience at Shinnecock Hills during the U.S. Open. Clark made several critical par saves as Scottie Scheffler attempted to close the gap. Clark’s performance included an eagle on the par-5 16th from a fairway metal shot that landed just 4 feet from the hole. He completed the round with an even-par 70, securing a commanding six-shot lead.
Historically, no one has lost a lead of more than five shots in the tournament’s 125-year history. Greg Norman remains the only player to have let a six-shot lead slip away during any major, specifically at the 1996 Masters.
Shinnecock Hills maintained its challenging reputation, even though the strong winds had calmed. Only Emiliano Grillo and Scottie Scheffler managed to score under par in the third round, with Grillo dealing with 30 mph winds before the leaders began and Scheffler recording a 69.
Clark narrowly missed joining them in breaking par. Despite proficient saves throughout, he missed a 5-foot par putt on the last hole, finishing at 7-under 203, marking the lowest 54-hole score ever at Shinnecock Hills. Clark now aims to secure another U.S. Open title, adding to his victory at Los Angeles Country Club in 2023.
Joining Clark in the final round is Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top-ranked player, hoping for a memorable Sunday. Scheffler seeks to achieve a career Grand Slam on his 30th birthday, coinciding with Father’s Day.
After a challenging start with two bogeys, Scheffler fought back. He recorded a 32 on the back nine, starting his momentum with a chipped-in birdie from 65 feet on the 14th, leading to three consecutive birdies. Despite missing a 4-foot birdie putt on the final hole, Scheffler secured his place in the last group as Shinnecock Hills tested others.
Sam Stevens, who briefly closed within two shots of Clark, faced difficulties with three consecutive bogeys at the start of the back nine and finished with six pars for a score of 72. Tom Kim’s two untimely dropped shots resulted in a 72, while Sahith Theegala posted one birdie, one bogey, and 16 pars for a 70.
This consistency usually yields success at any U.S. Open, including this year’s event. Only five players remain under par.
