Martin Kaymer is within touching distance of a first victory since winning the 2014 U.S. Open by eight shots, as the German enters the final round of the Austrian Golf Open in a share of the lead alongside Spain’s Alejandro Cañizares.
The former World Number One carded a third round 69 to move to nine under where he joined the leader from each of the opening two days, two-time European Tour winner Cañizares – who is also hoping to bridge a gap of seven years since his last title.
For two-time Major winner Kaymer, who won the Austrian Amateur Open in 2003, victory would mean a 12th European Tour title and an almighty push in the direction of the coveted top 50 in the Official World Golf Ranking – it could move him as high as 63rd.
“Mentally I’m really excited about the final round, it really doesn’t matter what happens – if you win or not – it’s just nice to be in that position,” said Kaymer. “Last year I had a couple of chances which I didn’t use. More often as you get into that position I think you get more comfortable and then it’s just a matter of time. After three days I think I’m happy to go out and see what happens.
Cañizares signed for a two under 70 which included two double bogeys and six birdies to maintain his hopes of a wire-to-wire victory.
Four in a row 💪@Acanizares10 is dialled in at the #AustrianGolfOpen. pic.twitter.com/LFkLcuxA0d
— The European Tour (@EuropeanTour) April 17, 2021
“I just need to keep doing what I’m doing,” said the Spaniard. “I’m hitting my tee shots really well and my second shots are just as good so I just need to keep calm, keep the head on my shoulders and just play my golf.”
Maximilian Kieffer of Germany sat in second spot on his own after a four under 68 moved him to within one stroke of the lead on eight under par, while American John Catlin was a shot further back after a third round 71.
