Sunday’s round promised a thrilling sequel to McIlroy’s duel with Deccanbo at last year’s US Open.
The American, who took a dramatic victory at Pinehurst, was second after three rounds, poised to destroy hopes of being the second in the world once again.
However, after a promising start when he took the lead with a birdie on the second hole, DeChambeau slipped into the 75th day on the third day, beginning his 75th day – appeared as McIlroy’s biggest challenger.
The 36 hole leader Roses, who slid down the leaderboard at 75 on Saturday, started with two birdies in the first three. Bogeys of 4 and 5 lost his momentum, but he picked up five shots on a 7-hole span and threw himself into the mix.
Former world number one Rose dropped more shots at 14 and 17, but he birded 15 and 16, and finally drained 20 footers to build up pressure on McIlroy.
Also, it’s another heartbreaking loss for Rose, finishing runner-up in last year’s Open Championship, but he played a central role in the final round of the Masters of Age.
“I just said [to McIlroy]this is a historic moment in golf, someone who achieves career grand slams.
“I said it was pretty cool to be able to share that moment with him.
“Obviously I wanted to be the bad guy, but it’s still an important opportunity for the game of golf.”
Sweden’s Rudyerberg, who finished runner-up in his debut at Schaeffler in 2024, temporarily shared lead with McIlroy and Rose, but ended up in seventh place, dropping four shots on the final two holes.
2018 champion Patrick Reed has made a closing 69 card. This matched two-time winner Schaeffler and earned more shots at 8 under.
