Robert MacIntyre Questions 'Why Can't It Be Me?' As He Pursues U.S. Open Victory At Oakmont

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Robert MacIntyre expressed confidence in his ability to win the U.S. Open following a strong performance at Oakmont. After an impressive third round, he questioned, "Why can't it be me?" when asked about his chances of victory. MacIntyre's opening round of level-par 70 was among his best, but he improved with a 69 in the third round, placing him three over and six shots behind leaders Sam Burns and J.J. Spaun.

Heavy rain had softened the Oakmont course slightly, making it more playable yet still challenging. MacIntyre noted, "It is a little bit softer, so when you're on the fairway it gives you more of an opportunity." He emphasised that staying on the fairway is crucial for success on this course. Despite some late bogeys, MacIntyre remains optimistic about his chances.

Burns and Spaun shared the lead at the turn, while Carlos Ortiz from LIV Golf surged into contention two shots back alongside Viktor Hovland. Burns started three under par and maintained his position despite an early bogey. Spaun birdied the first hole to share the lead and regained it after Burns' bogey on the second hole.

Ortiz began six shots off the lead but managed four birdies without any bogeys as he approached the final holes. Hovland was two shots behind after balancing early bogeys with birdies. Adam Scott, playing in his 96th consecutive major, shared fifth place with Tyrell Hatton from LIV Golf, who was three under for his round with four holes remaining.

MacIntyre believes he can win if he plays well in the final round. He stated, "One hundred per cent. I wouldn't be here if I didn't believe that." He plans to focus on hitting good shots rather than solely aiming for victory until later in the round when he will assess his position.

Pre-tournament favourite Scottie Scheffler struggled to make significant progress. He ended with an even-par 70 after mixing four bogeys with four birdies, leaving him at four over par overall.

MacIntyre's strategy involves focusing on each shot rather than getting caught up in winning pressure too early. He aims to assess his standing around holes 15 or 16 before deciding whether to take risks or play conservatively based on his position relative to other competitors.

The overnight rain made conditions slightly easier but still demanding due to thickened rough from water absorption. MacIntyre felt confident about achieving a low score given how well he played throughout most of his rounds so far during this tournament at Oakmont.

As players head into their final rounds tomorrow morning under potentially changing weather conditions again overnight tonight; all eyes will be watching closely how these top contenders handle both mental pressures along physical challenges presented by one toughest courses around world today!