Tiger Woods shot a third-round 66 to move into the top 10 after 54 holes of the 2018 Open Championship. Woods will enter Sunday’s finale at Carnoustie four off the pace of co-leaders Jordan Spieth, Kevin Kisner, and Xander Schauffele, who share the lead at 9-under par.
Woods began the day at even par and tied for 29th, six shots back, but after a round that included six birdies – highlighted by a hat trick on Nos. 9, 10, and 11, the 42-year old sits just four behind with only two players between him and the lead group.
Despite the aforementioned six-pack of gains, it may have been a par on 18 that keyed Woods’ round. After a tee shot that came within inches of landing in the burn, Woods laid up to about 90 yards, and then set up a par putt with a 56 wedge laser.
“It was huge. I didn’t want to drop two shots coming in. I played so well I didn’t want to end on a bogey,” said Woods.
Woods continued his improved accuracy off the tee, hitting another 12 fairways on Saturday en route to a field-best 34.
“I really didn’t feel like I really made a bad swing until 18,” said Woods, who also hit 14 of 18 greens.
“I really felt like I had control of the golf ball today. And on top of that, I made some longer putts, which was nice.”
Woods will be paired with Francesco Molinari on Sunday in the third to last group.
