In a thrilling third round of the US PGA Championship 2026, Rory McIlroy surged into contention, joining the leaders with a strong performance. After a challenging start, McIlroy carded six birdies, including one at the drivable par-four 13th, placing him at -3 alongside Alex Smalley and Maverick McNealy.

Justin Rose, enjoying a relaxed post-round interview, expressed concerns about the increasing difficulty as the wind picked up. His impressive score of 65 places him at -2, keeping him firmly in the mix for the championship. Rose's round included five birdies on the front nine, showcasing his determination to reclaim major glory.

Key Highlights:

• McIlroy: Finished strong with a series of birdies, overcoming early struggles.
• Rose: Shot 65, with notable par savers, demonstrating resilience.
• Jon Rahm: Continues to impress with a score of -3, keeping pace with the leaders.
• Joaquin Niemann: Made a significant move with birdies and an eagle, also at -3.

With the wind expected to complicate matters for later starters, the early movers like McIlroy and Rose capitalized on favorable conditions. As the leaderboard tightens, all eyes are on the final rounds where every stroke counts. The excitement builds as players like Xander Schauffele and Sam Burns also vie for top positions, making the upcoming rounds crucial in the quest for the title.