Takeaways from Round 3

### DeChambeau Dominates Moving Day at Pinehurst No. 2

On moving day at Pinehurst No. 2, Bryson DeChambeau delivered an impressive performance to secure a commanding solo lead heading into the final round of the U.S. Open. Here are three key takeaways from Saturday’s action.

#### DeChambeau Seizes Control

Bryson DeChambeau, the 2020 U.S. Open champion, began the day tied for second at four under par. By the time he walked off the course, he had posted a score of 67, propelling him to seven under and establishing a three-shot lead over his closest competitors. DeChambeau methodically tackled one of golf’s most challenging courses, recording six birdies despite a stumble with a double-bogey on the 16th hole. However, he quickly recovered, birdieing the 17th and finishing the round with a par on the 18th.

DeChambeau’s dominant round was even more impressive given that he was contending with a hip injury that required treatment during play. His strong performance places him in a favorable position heading into the final round. According to Justin Ray of The Athletic, players with a three-stroke lead entering the final round of the U.S. Open have a significant advantage, historically going on to win 22 out of 34 times.

#### Aberg’s Struggles

Ludvig Aberg, who surprised many by taking the lead on Friday, faced a challenging third round. The 24-year-old, playing in his first U.S. Open, started the day at five under par but struggled to maintain his form, shooting a 73 and dropping to two under. Aberg managed only three birdies and recorded five bogeys, including a triple bogey on the 13th hole.

Aberg’s rough round leaves him tied for fifth, five strokes behind DeChambeau. He shares this position with notable players such as Patrick Cantlay, Rory McIlroy, and Matthieu Pavon, all at four under par.

#### Pinehurst’s Punishing Conditions

Patrick Cantlay predicted on Thursday that Pinehurst No. 2 would become increasingly difficult as the weekend progressed, and Saturday’s action validated his forecast. The renowned course lived up to its reputation, posing significant challenges for many golfers.

As the tournament heads into its final round, only eight players remain under par. Among them are Tyrrell Hatton and Tony Finau, both barely maintaining their position at one under. The challenging conditions of Pinehurst No. 2 have undoubtedly set the stage for a dramatic conclusion to this year’s U.S. Open.