Jordan Spieth leads The Open as Tiger rolls back the years

Defending champion in pole position after delivering faultless third round

Jordan Spieth The Open
(Image credit: Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Jordan Spieth took The Open lead with a faultless third round on Saturday. The American, who is bidding to become the first man to retain the Claret Jug since 2008, shot a six-under 65 at Carnoustie.

However, he struck a cautious note after play. "I know as well as anyone that anything can happen in the Open. I'm not getting ahead of myself, I'm just in a good position," the 24-year-old Texan told the BBC.

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Tiger Woods surged into contention on the third day of The Open, shooting his lowest round at a major since 2011. The Guardian says the American "rolled back the years" with an engrossing five-under-par 66 that put him among the leaders.

In his first Open appearance since 2015, the 42-year-old showed glimpses of the magic that won him 14 majors, the sort of sparkling form that has eluded him since his last win at a major in 2008.

Justin Rose in the mix after career-best round

Earlier, Justin Rose had thrilled supporters as he shot a career-best major round of 64 to move up the third-round leaderboard.

The Englishman, who had only edged his way past the cut, sunk seven birdies to go within two shots of the leaders at four under. It was a position he could scarcely have dreamt of yesterday evening.

"It was a beautiful morning to play golf," said the world number three. "I will need an even better final round to win but I have given myself a chance.”