LOS ANGELES — Sam Burns maintained his slender one-shot lead at the US Open after a gripping third round at The Los Angeles Country Club, but a star-studded chasing pack led by Adam Scott, JJ Spaun, and Viktor Hovland ensured the final day will be anything but straightforward.
Burns, seeking his first major championship, carded a steady 2-under 68 on Saturday to move to 10-under for the tournament. However, the 27-year-old Louisiana native knows the job is far from done. "It's going to take another great round tomorrow," Burns said. "There are so many great players right behind me. I just have to stay patient and trust my game."
The Chasers Loom Large
Former Masters champion Adam Scott surged into contention with a brilliant 5-under 65, the low round of the day, to sit just one stroke back at 9-under. The 42-year-old Australian, who hasn’t won on the PGA Tour since 2020, rolled in five birdies and avoided any mistakes. "I’ve been working hard on my game, and it’s nice to see it paying off," Scott said. "I love this golf course—it rewards precision, and that suits me."
JJ Spaun, a relatively unheralded contender, matched Burns’ 68 to stay within striking distance at 8-under. Meanwhile, Norway’s Viktor Hovland, fresh off a victory at the Memorial Tournament, fired a 67 to join Spaun in a tie for third. "I feel like my game is in a great spot," Hovland said. "If I can keep driving it well, I like my chances."
Key Moments from Round 3
The third round was filled with dramatic shifts, including:
- Burns’ clutch par save on the 14th after a wayward drive
- Scott’s 30-foot birdie putt on the 12th to ignite his charge
- Hovland’s eagle on the par-5 8th, setting the tone for his round
Defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick struggled to a 73, falling six shots off the pace, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler remained in contention at 6-under after a 68. "I just need to clean up a few things," Scheffler said. "But I’m right there if I can put together a low one."
Course Conditions & Strategy
The Los Angeles Country Club’s North Course has drawn praise for its firm, fast greens and strategic layout. Players have emphasized the importance of:
- Precision off the tee to avoid thick rough
- Patience on the tricky, undulating greens
- Smart course management to avoid big numbers
Burns acknowledged the challenge ahead: "You can’t force anything out here. The course will give you opportunities, but it can also bite you if you get greedy."
Final Round Predictions
With so many proven winners in contention, Sunday promises high drama. Key factors to watch:
- Burns’ ability to handle major championship pressure
- Scott’s experience in big moments
- Hovland’s red-hot form and confidence
Golf analyst Paul Azinger summed it up: "This is what the US Open is all about—a stacked leaderboard, a tough course, and a test of nerves. It’s going to be a battle until the very last putt drops."
As the sun sets on Los Angeles, Burns holds the advantage—but with so much talent lurking, the final round is set to be a classic. "I’m excited for the challenge," Burns said. "This is why we play the game."
