Billy Horschel maintained a one-shot lead at the Open Championship following a grueling third round at Royal Troon. Battling severe weather conditions, Horschel managed to card a 2-under 69, putting him at 4-under 209 for the tournament.
The day was marked by relentless rain and strong winds, particularly on the back nine, which many players described as one of the most challenging stretches they’ve ever faced. Former world No. 1 Dustin Johnson called it “the hardest nine holes I think you could ever play in golf right now.”
Despite the adverse conditions, Billy Horschel showcased exceptional skill, especially in his short game, making crucial par saves from difficult positions. This marks the golfer’s first 54-hole lead in a major championship.
The leaderboard saw significant changes throughout the day. Thriston Lawrence of South Africa and Sam Burns both shot impressive 65s earlier in the day when conditions were more favorable, catapulting them into contention. Lawrence will join Horschel in the final group on Sunday, just one shot behind.
Other notable contenders include Russell Henley, Xander Schauffele, Justin Rose, and Daniel Brown, all within striking distance of the lead. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler remains in the hunt, just two shots back after a solid 71.
The day was particularly challenging for Shane Lowry, who started with a three-shot lead but struggled on the back nine, finishing with a 77 that dropped him three shots behind Billy Horschel.
The difficult conditions led to some unusual play, including players using fairway woods on par-4s and drivers on par-3s. A highlight of the day came from Si Woo Kim, who made the first hole-in-one on the 17th hole in Open Championship history at Royal Troon.
With 24 players separated by just six shots, Sunday’s final round promises to be an exciting and unpredictable conclusion to this year’s Open Championship.
