Wyndham Clark’s Sturdy Play at U.S. Open Creates Historic Lead

Southampton, N.Y. — Wyndham Clark showcased remarkable resilience on Saturday during the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills. As the course presented its toughest challenge, Clark excelled under pressure, maintaining composure with crucial par saves while Scottie Scheffler pushed forward. Clark’s performance culminated in an impressive eagle on the par-5 16th hole, achieved with a precise fairway metal to just 4 feet, securing an even-par round of 70. This achievement gave Clark a commanding six-shot lead.

Historically, the largest deficit overcome in this tournament has been five shots over 125 previous editions. The exception across all major golf tournaments was Greg Norman in the 1996 Masters, where he lost a six-shot lead. Scottie Scheffler was also in the spotlight, acknowledging the crowd after his birdie on the 16th hole during the third round of the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills on June 20, 2026. (Christian Petersen/Getty)

Despite the formidable conditions, Shinnecock Hills saw only two players break par during the third round—Emiliano Grillo faced 30-mph winds before the leaders commenced, and Scheffler managed a commendable 69. Clark came close to joining this exclusive group but ended his round with a missed 5-foot par putt at the final hole. He recorded the lowest 54-hole score at Shinnecock Hills, standing 7-under at 203.

Clark now aims to add another U.S. Open title to his achievements, following his victory at the Los Angeles Country Club in 2023. Scheffler, ranked as the No. 1 player globally, joins Clark in pursuit of an extraordinary Sunday performance. Scheffler seeks a rare career Grand Slam, coinciding with Father’s Day and his 30th birthday.

In an interview with NBC, Scheffler expressed anticipation, saying, “There’s a lot of stuff going on. 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 initially trailed by nine shots, marked by dual bogeys early on, but rebounded strongly. His back nine featured a 32 score, highlighted by an impressive chip-in from 65 feet on the 14th, sparking three consecutive birdies. Yet, he regretted missing a 4-foot birdie putt at the final hole. Shinnecock Hills proved challenging for many, leaving Scheffler as a contender in the final group.

Reflecting competitive dynamics, Sam Stevens edged within two shots of Clark before the back nine. However, three consecutive bogeys followed by six-par finishes led to a 72. Similarly, Tom Kim and Sahith Theegala faced difficulties; Kim dropped two crucial shots, closing with a 72, while Theegala finished with one birdie, one bogey, and 16 pars for a round of 70. As a result, only five players remained under par.