Fitzpatrick Takes Five-Shot Open de France Lead into Final Round
Matt Fitzpatrick shot a third-round 65 at Le Golf National to reach 19-under and lead the Open de France by five. His 54-hole total matched Seve Ballesteros's 1985 tournament record. Tom Vaillant is second at 14-under, while Eugenio Chacarra posted the week's lowest round of 62.
Matt Fitzpatrick carded a third-round 65 at Le Golf National, moving to 19 under and taking a five-stroke advantage into the final round. His 54-hole score equals the tournament benchmark set by Seve Ballesteros in 1985. Tom Vaillant, backed by home fans, sits second at 14 under after a 67. Eugenio Chacarra recorded the week’s best round, a 62, and shares third with several players at 13 under.
Tommy Fleetwood withdrew before Saturday because of illness, while defending champion Michael Kim’s closing double bogey dropped him to 12 under. Vaillant also heads the chase for an Open Championship place at St Andrews in 2027.
Fitzpatrick’s record-equalling lead and Vaillant’s home challenge could draw more French viewers and spectators to golf, especially with a St Andrews Open exemption at stake. A strong local showing may encourage amateur participation and support for DP World Tour events in France. For players, the final round could shape career opportunities and sponsorship interest. Fans may enjoy a compelling final round, though outcomes remain uncertain.