RORY MCILROY MAY only hold a one-shot lead heading into the final round at the US PGA Championship, but he is happy with his position.
World number one McIlroy preserved his advantage atop the leaderboard after carding a four-under-par 67 in the penultimate round at the Valhalla Golf Club on Saturday.
Austrian surprise-packet Bernd Wiesberger went bogey-free as he shot a 65 but McIlroy finished strongly – birdying three of his final four holes – to close the day a stroke clear at 13 under through 54 holes.
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Rickie Fowler (67) is also within striking distance at 11 under, while Phil Mickelson (67) and Jason Day (69) are a further stroke back.
However, the Irishman said he is perfectly placed as he attempts to win three consecutive titles.
“The guys got pretty close to me at The Open [Championship] and today and I was able to respond on the back nine,” McIlroy said.
“It’s not the biggest lead I’ve ever had but I am still in control of this tournament and it’s still a good position to be in.
“I just knew I needed to make a couple (of birdies) coming down the back nine to keep the lead or at least be tied. The two birdies on 15 and 16 were huge.
“It’s where I want to be, it’s the best place to be in a tournament. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
I'm still in control, says McIlroy ahead of final day challenge
RORY MCILROY MAY only hold a one-shot lead heading into the final round at the US PGA Championship, but he is happy with his position.
World number one McIlroy preserved his advantage atop the leaderboard after carding a four-under-par 67 in the penultimate round at the Valhalla Golf Club on Saturday.
Austrian surprise-packet Bernd Wiesberger went bogey-free as he shot a 65 but McIlroy finished strongly – birdying three of his final four holes – to close the day a stroke clear at 13 under through 54 holes.
Rickie Fowler (67) is also within striking distance at 11 under, while Phil Mickelson (67) and Jason Day (69) are a further stroke back.
However, the Irishman said he is perfectly placed as he attempts to win three consecutive titles.
“The guys got pretty close to me at The Open [Championship] and today and I was able to respond on the back nine,” McIlroy said.
“It’s not the biggest lead I’ve ever had but I am still in control of this tournament and it’s still a good position to be in.
“I just knew I needed to make a couple (of birdies) coming down the back nine to keep the lead or at least be tied. The two birdies on 15 and 16 were huge.
“It’s where I want to be, it’s the best place to be in a tournament. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”
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Bernd Wiesberger European Tour Golf MAJOR DEAL PGa Championship PGA Tour Rory McIlroy US PGA Championship