In the midst of the high-stakes competition at Oakmont, Sam Burns finds himself in a promising position following his standout performance at the Canadian Open. With a stellar round of 65 on Friday, Burns showcased his top-tier skills, positioning himself as a formidable contender with five PGA Tour victories under his belt. Notably, Burns and Ryan Fox stand out as the only players yet to three-putt on the notoriously challenging Oakmont greens, described as the “scariest in golf” by a USGA official.

However, the road to victory at Oakmont is laden with challenges, as historical data reveals that converting a 54-hole lead into a US Open victory on this course is a rare feat. Past events at Oakmont, such as Johnny Miller’s remarkable comeback in 1973, underscore the unpredictability of the game. Despite these odds, the field remains wide open, with a diverse mix of talented players poised to seize the opportunity if the leaders falter. The tightly packed leaderboard sets the stage for a thrilling finale, with big names waiting to make their move.

As the competition intensifies, the tee-times for the final round are set, signaling the climax of this gripping tournament. The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion at Oakmont, where anything is possible in the quest for golfing glory.