Surprise leadership at Royal Birkdale
Sam Burns took advantage of his best opportunity in a major he never planned to play. After tying the record with a round of 62, he shot a 5-under 65 on Saturday to build a two-shot lead at Royal Birkdale.
The American changed his mind a week ago and flew from Louisiana to play in the British Open, just two weeks after the birth of his daughter Belle.
Burns played with determination despite the chaos generated by Bryson DeChambeau, his playing partner, who received great support from the public a day after protesting a two-stroke penalty for improving the area of his swing. DeChambeau responded with two late birdies and a 69, leaving him four shots off the lead.
Burns registered 10 under par (200 strokes) and leads by two over Si Woo Kim (67) and Ryan Fox. The New Zealander became the third player of the week to equal the record for a major with 62, which places him in the final group with options to achieve his first major.
Pursuit and experience
Tommy Fleetwood, Southport’s local favorite, shot 69 and is five shots behind. Scottie Scheffler, defending champion, struggled again with his putt and was within six after a 70.
Of the ten leaders heading into Sunday, only DeChambeau – a two-time US Open champion – has won a major. But Burns knows the pressure: He was one putt away from forcing a playoff at the US Open last month at Shinnecock Hills, and he led after 54 holes at Oakmont last year, slowed by wet conditions.
“Being able to come here was a bonus,” Burns said. “I didn’t think there was any chance. Tomorrow will be a big challenge. Whatever happens, I can live with the result.”
