A Tournament of Twists: US Open Leaderboard Shakes Up
As the third round of the 2025 US Open wraps up, the US Open leaderboard is proving to be as unpredictable as ever. Rory McIlroy, a four-time major winner, has moved steadily into the top five after a brilliant third-day performance, while American underdog J.J. Spaun has taken the golfing world by surprise by claiming a share of the lead.
Held this year at the challenging Oakmont Country Club, the tournament has already delivered nail-biting putts, bunker miracles, and leaderboard upheavals—all in front of roaring crowds and millions watching the live golf scores online.
Rory McIlroy tees off during round three of the US Open 2025.
Source: BBC Sport Golf – US Open Coverage
Rory McIlroy Eyes Elusive Fifth Major
Rory McIlroy, who hasn’t lifted a major trophy since the 2014 PGA Championship, is on a mission to end the drought. After carding a bogey-free 66 on Saturday, McIlroy is now sitting just two shots behind the joint leaders. His calm short game and precision off the tee have kept him in contention despite tricky greens and unpredictable winds.
“I feel like my rhythm is finally there,” McIlroy told reporters. “I’m not chasing anyone—I’m just playing my game and trusting the process.”
McIlroy’s name rising up the US Open leaderboard has rekindled hopes among his loyal fanbase that 2025 could finally be the year he adds another major title to his résumé.
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J.J. Spaun: The Breakout Star of Oakmont
Few expected J.J. Spaun to be a major threat this week. Ranked outside the top 50 entering the tournament, Spaun came out firing with back-to-back rounds of 68 and then a sensational 65 that catapulted him to the top of the PGA US Open standings.
Spaun’s steady hands on the greens and fearless iron play have given him the momentum and confidence to stare down the biggest names in golf.
“I know people didn’t see this coming,” Spaun admitted after his round. “But I’ve been working for this moment my whole life. Why not now?”
With the US Open leaderboard 2025 so tightly packed, Spaun’s consistency will be tested under Sunday pressure.
The Chasers: Big Names Lurking
Source: Getty
While McIlroy and Spaun lead the headlines, several big names remain within striking distance heading into the final round:
- Scottie Scheffler sits three shots back, hunting his third major in two seasons.
- Collin Morikawa, known for his calm under pressure, remains a sleeper threat just four shots behind.
- Jon Rahm has struggled with his irons but remains within five strokes—dangerous territory for a player of his calibre.
The live golf scores continue to fluctuate with every swing, as the tight conditions at Oakmont punish the smallest mistakes and reward bold shot-making.
Weather Could Be a Factor
Sunday’s final round may not just be a test of nerves—it could be a battle against the elements. Forecasts are calling for gusts up to 30 km/h and possible afternoon showers. Such conditions could turn the back nine into a war of attrition, especially on Oakmont’s infamous 17th and 18th holes.
“Oakmont doesn’t let you breathe,” said Golf Channel analyst and former champion Curtis Strange. “It’ll chew you up if you let your guard down for even a hole.”
Sports are incredible.@McIlroyRory @TheMasters pic.twitter.com/arxvGyNuJB
— Jeff Eisenband (@JeffEisenband) April 13, 2025
Aussie Contenders Hold Their Ground
From an Australian perspective, Jason Day remains the country’s best hope. Although five strokes off the lead, Day’s short game has kept him in the mix, and his experience in majors could serve him well on Sunday.
Min Woo Lee showed flashes of brilliance but struggled on the back nine Saturday, finishing even par for the day. Still, he remains inside the top 20 and will aim for a strong finish to boost his world ranking.
Where to Watch
Australian viewers can catch the final round live on Kayo Sports, Fox Sports, and streaming via Nine’s Wide World of Sports. With the tournament expected to go down to the wire, this could be one of the most memorable US Open finishes in recent history.
Conclusion: All Eyes on Sunday
The US Open leaderboard 2025 promises a dramatic final chapter. Whether it’s McIlroy’s resurgence, Spaun’s underdog fairytale, or a late charge from another major winner, Oakmont is poised to deliver golf at its rawest and most exhilarating.
Whatever the outcome, the final round is set to captivate fans from Augusta to Adelaide, proving once again why the PGA US Open remains one of sport’s most compelling stages.
