Wyndham Clark holds a commanding lead heading into the final round of the US Open at Shinnecock Hills, but the American has voiced disappointment with the subdued atmosphere in Southampton, New York. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from next week's Travelers Championship, marking the third signature event he has skipped this PGA season.
Clark's Lead and Complaint
Clark, 32, opened the tournament with a stunning 64, featuring five birdies and an eagle, followed by rounds of 69 and 70. He leads the field as the final round approaches. However, he lamented the lack of crowd energy on Saturday, stating: "It was kind of unfortunate that we're finishing in the dark and people weren't really out there because there were some obviously key, big moments, and it did kind of get a little flat." He added, "Hopefully tomorrow [Sunday] there's a bunch of fans and stuff, but for me, it's still really important, and I still felt the moment. It's just maybe unfortunate that there weren't all the people there."
McIlroy's Withdrawal
Rory McIlroy, currently at three-over par and out of contention for the US Open title, has opted to skip the Travelers Championship at TPC River Highlands in Cromwell, Connecticut. This is the last signature event of the PGA season, and McIlroy's absence means he will have played in only five of the eight signature events this year. Under PGA Tour rules, players must meet a 15-event minimum or face fines, but McIlroy is exempt as a lifetime PGA Tour member due to his 30 career wins.
McIlroy's decision is not surprising, as he previously indicated plans to reduce his schedule. In 2025, he said: "I just played way too much last year. I want to be home more. I want to be a little more rested and fresh for bigger events."
