SOUTHPORT, UK – In a display of golfing prowess that sent ripples through Royal Birkdale, New Zealand's Ryan Fox has shot a stunning eight-under-par 62 in the third round of the 154th Open Championship, equalling the all-time major championship scoring record. His scintillating performance not only vaulted him into a tie for the lead but also set the stage for a thrilling finale to one of golf's most prestigious tournaments.
The 37-year-old Aucklander finished his round in sensational style, needing just 29 shots on the back nine, a run that included five birdies and an eagle. His heroics drew comparisons to Branden Grace's 62 at the 2017 Open at Birkdale itself, and more recently, Rickie Fowler and Xander Schauffele's identical scores at last year's US Open. CBS Sports NY reported that Fox now shares this elite scoring benchmark with a select few, including USA's Sam Burns and Australia's Lucas Herbert, who also achieved the feat on Saturday.
Moving Day Magic on Merseyside
The notoriously challenging links course at Royal Birkdale, often unforgiving, yielded to Fox's precise ball-striking and masterful touch around the greens. Starting the day well back from the leaders, Fox demonstrated an unwavering focus, particularly as the pressure mounted on the inward nine. His eagle on the par-5 17th, a hole that has often proven to be a pivotal point at Birkdale, was a highlight, propelling him further up the leaderboard and igniting the crowd. Spectators, braving the typically unpredictable English weather, were treated to a golfing masterclass, a testament to Fox's burgeoning form.
Australian Hopes Soar with Herbert
While Fox captured much of the headlines, Australia's own Lucas Herbert delivered a similarly impressive round, carding his own 62 to join the record books. The Victorian's performance injects significant Australian interest into Sunday's final round. Herbert, known for his aggressive style of play, found his rhythm early and maintained it throughout, capitalising on scoring opportunities and showcasing a revitalised short game. His presence at the top of the leaderboard ensures that Australian golf fans will be glued to their screens, hopeful of witnessing a historic victory from one of their own.
A Crowded Leaderboard Awaits
The shared lead, also featuring American Sam Burns who posted his 62 earlier in the day, promises a captivating conclusion to the Open. With multiple players demonstrating their capability to go exceptionally low under championship pressure, the final 18 holes are set to be a fierce battle of nerves and skill. The unpredictability of links golf, coupled with the high stakes of a major championship, means that any of the contenders could emerge victorious. Pundits are already speculating on the strategies each player will employ, with course management and putting prowess expected to be crucial in separating the champion from the chasing pack. The prize money for the winner this year is anticipated to exceed AU$4 million, adding another layer of intensity to Sunday's proceedings.
