Japan's Hideki Matsuyama labored to a birdie-less 2-over-par 72 Saturday to wind up six strokes off the pace entering the final round of the U.S. Open, one of the four majors in men's professional golf.
While Matsuyama was slowed by a pair of bogeys on the front nine, American Will Zalatoris and England's Matt Fitzpatrick overcame tough conditions at The Country Club to share the third-round lead at 4-under 206.
Playing on dry, crusty greens in blustery conditions, only seven golfers scored under par and only 10 had as good a score as even.
Defending champion John Rahm sits one stroke off the lead in third. Keegan Bradley, Adam Hadwin and world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler are tied for fourth place at 2-under, and Rory McIlroy is in a group at 1-under.
"I wanted at least one birdie. The wind was strong but not being able to get a single birdie all day was the cruelest of blows. I'll work hard and prepare as best as I can (for the final round)," Matsuyama said.
Matsuyama, winner of the 2021 Masters, is seeking a second major title.
Related coverage:
Golf: Hideki Matsuyama 5 strokes off pace after U.S. Open 2nd round
Golf: Matsuyama off to solid start at U.S. Open, 4 shots off lead
Golf: Hideki Matsuyama disqualified at Memorial over illegal marking on club
