Scott on track for spot in US Open

ADAM Scott has edged closer to his goal of qualifying for the US Open after his promising performance at The Players Championship.

While countryman Jason Day ( 68) finished as the leading Australian in a tie for fifth at 13 under, only Scott will make a leap in the world rankings as he looks to keep his phenomenal active streak in the majors alive.

Scott matched Day’s final round 68 at TPC Sawgrass to finish 11 under, his share of 11th set to move the Queenslander up six spots to world No. 65.

It is vital to Scott’s monthlong quest to qualify for the US Open, with the 37- yearold needing to sneak into the world’s top 60 in time for the May 21 and June 11 deadlines.

Having played in every major since the 2001 British Open, 2013 Masters winner Scott ( 67) sits behind only Sergio Garcia ( 75) for most consecutive starts on golf’s biggest stage.

Despite the good result at golf’s unofficial fifth major, Scott is aware the job is far from over.

He will need a strong result at the Byron Nelson event in Texas this week to have a chance at jagging a US Open berth from the first rankings cut- off.

“It is [ a step in the right direction] but I have to back it up. I need three or four good weeks in a row if I want to get to [US Open host course] Shinnecock Hills,” Scott said. “I putted really weak this week and hit the ball solid at times.

“I feel like my game is in really good shape and hopefully it is the start of a good run of golf for me.”

Although Day followed his win at the Wells Fargo Championship with a top five at the Players, he will remain as world No. 7.

He will next tee up at the Memorial Tournament at the end of May, held in his adopted home of Columbus, Ohio.

Victorian Marc Leishman struggled to a 76 to share 63rd at three under.