Final Group Set for Sunday Showdown at Philadelphia Cricket Club

The scenic Philadelphia Cricket Club’s Wissahickon Course showed yet another personality on Saturday as improved weather conditions allowed players to attack pins during the third round of the 2025 Truist Championship.

When the dust settled, European Ryder Cup teammates Sepp Straka and Shane Lowry had separated themselves from the pack, sharing the 54-hole lead at 14-under par heading into Sunday’s final round of the $20 million signature event.

Austrian Aims for Fourth PGA Tour Title

Straka, who captured the American Express earlier this season, fired a solid 66 to climb into position for another victory. Despite his recent success, the Austrian acknowledged that final-round nerves are inevitable.

“You’re going to have them. You’re definitely going to have them,” Straka admitted. “All you can do is try to focus on what you can control, and that is your target, try to hit your number, and try to make a good swing. That’s pretty much it. You’re going to feel terrible while trying to do it, but that’s just part of it. That kind of makes it fun when you are able to pull it off.”

Lowry’s Long Wait for Individual Glory

While Lowry teamed with Rory McIlroy to win last year’s Zurich Classic, he hasn’t claimed an individual title since his breakthrough major victory at the 2019 Open Championship. The popular Irishman draws inspiration from his Zurich partner’s recent Masters triumph.

“I just think you need to be persistent. You need to keep putting yourself there, and eventually it will happen. You look at Rory at the Masters a few weeks ago,” Lowry said. “Keep knocking on the door, and eventually you’ll go through it. I feel like I’ve done a good job of it this season, last season. I’m in the final group tomorrow. I’m going to go out and give my best.”

Chasing Pack

Justin Thomas and Keith Mitchell remain within striking distance, sitting just three shots back in a tie for third place. Mitchell led after a blistering first-round 61 but has gradually fallen back to the pack, while Thomas continues his resurgent form following his recent victory at the RBC Heritage.

Tournament Adjustments

This year’s Truist Championship, formerly known as the Wells Fargo Championship, was relocated from its traditional home at Quail Hollow Club to Philadelphia Cricket Club for one year only. Quail Hollow will host next week’s PGA Championship, where four-time Truist/Wells Fargo winner Rory McIlroy will be among the favorites.

The third round also saw a pair of withdrawals as Michael Kim cited back pain after completing 12 holes, while Justin Rose pulled out before his round began due to illness. Rose had struggled to a 7-over 77 in Friday’s second round.

Sunday’s final round promises excitement with $3.6 million awaiting the champion from the $20 million purse. With challenging pin positions expected and pressure mounting, the historic Philadelphia Cricket Club will provide a fitting stage for the tournament’s dramatic conclusion.