Henrik: I hope it’s finally Scandinavia’s turn

HENRIK STENSON is under no illusions about the size of the task in front of him today as he seeks to make Scandinavian sporting history and become the first male from the region to win a major.

The 40-year-old Swede shot a wonderful third-round 68 to establish a one-shot lead over American Phil Mickelson and set up what promises to be a compelling match-play duel for the 145th Open Championship at Royal Troon.

‘I know that Phil is not going to back off, he’s one of the finest players the game has seen over the past 50 years, so I’ve certainly got my hands full,’ said Stenson. ‘But I’m where I want to be and I just need to keep playing my game.’

Asked what it would mean to be the first man from the Nordic region to win a major, he said: ‘I know it’s going to be a huge day and a lot of people are going to be watching. We’ve had some close runs in the past and now I hope to make it our turn.’

Mickelson had begun the day with a one-shot lead but that was wiped out as he shot 70 to Stenson’s 68.

Yet the five-time major winner considered this a more than an acceptable outcome after a day when he rode his luck and relied on his brilliant short game. The 46-yearold said: ‘This was not like the first two days for me in terms of ball striking but I found a way to get the ball in the hole. Given everything, I’d have to say it was a pretty good day, but it’s clear I’m going to have to step it up in the final round. Henrik played very well and is striking the ball beautifully.’

Sergio Garcia is unlikely to add to his record of twice finishing runner-up at The Open, but he enjoyed playing the third round alongside crowd favourite Andrew Johnston.

‘I got cheers, too,’ said the Spaniard. ‘They love me here, so obviously [Johnston] was pushed hard by the crowds, but so was I. I’ve always loved this tournament, and I can’t thank the people enough that follow me here and the way they cheered me on.’

After his 73 saw him slip to 10 shots off the lead, he said: ‘Obviously winning is great, but it’s not the only thing. I’d rather finish fifth or sixth than 15th or 20th.’