Rahm, McIlroy, Scheffler grind to stay in US Open hunt

Defending champion Jon Rahm, Masters champion Scottie Scheffler and four-time major winner Rory McIlroy - the world's three top-ranked players - grinded out rounds Saturday to stay in contention at the US Open.

Second-ranked Spaniard Rahm birdied three of the last five holes but hit into bunkers on his first three shots at 18 for a double bogey to shoot one-over par 71 and stand on three-under 207, one stroke behind co-leaders Will Zalatoris of the United States and England's Matt Fitzpatrick after 54 holes at The Country Club.

"I'm very content. I'm not going to lie. I have to consider that I have 18 holes and I'm only one shot back. That's the important thing," Rahm said.

"I know somebody behind is going to come out hot and is going to post a score, and I know I'm going to have to play good and probably shoot in the red numbers. That's my job."

Third-ranked McIlroy, with three bogeys and a short birdie putt miss in the first six holes, salvaged a 73 to stand on 209, three adrift but within reach.

"I'm sort of going home thinking that I held this round together when it could have got away from me quickly," McIlroy said.

"I certainly thought I was going to be a few shots further back than I was at the end of the day, but Jon struggled there coming in. Even though it was such a tough day and I feel like I battled well, to still only be three back going into tomorrow I feel is a good thing for me."

World number one Scheffler, chasing his fifth title and second major of the year, is primed for the mental and physical challenge of Sunday's final round.

"The US Open is very taxing, mentally and physically. I think that's all part of what makes this tournament so fun," he said.

"You're going to get tested all different kinds of ways,