Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin took a commanding three-stroke lead into the final round of the Zurich Classic with an impressive 11-under 61 in better-ball play. Both players are in pursuit of their first PGA Tour title and entered the alternate-shot finale with a total score of 27-under 189. Despite their lead, Novak remains cautious, acknowledging how quickly a three-shot advantage can dissipate. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, the defending champions, are five strokes behind after McIlroy's remarkable eagle putt on the 18th hole following a weather delay. The competition remains fierce with teams like Jake Knapp and Frankie Capan III, and the Japanese pair of Ryo Hisatsune and Takumi Kanaya, closely trailing at 24 under par.

Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin achieved an 11-under 61 in the better-ball play, securing a three-stroke lead before the final round of the Zurich Classic, the PGA Tour’s exclusive team event.

Aiming for their first PGA Tour win, Novak and Griffin took a 27-under 189 total into the upcoming alternate-shot finale, with Griffin expressing their determination to compete against the best.

Novak, fresh off a playoff loss to Justin Thomas, emphasized the need to maintain their performance despite the current lead, aware of how quickly the advantage can change.

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, trailing by five strokes, witnessed McIlroy's impressive 30-foot eagle putt on the par-5 18th after a 90-minute weather delay, which he described as a bonus.

Jake Knapp and Frankie Capan III shot a 60 to join Ryo Hisatsune and Takumi Kanaya at 24 under, demonstrating the high level of competition in the tournament.

Isaiah Salinda and Kevin Velo, who led in the initial rounds, fell to a tie for fourth at 23 under after a round of 66, having set a tournament better-ball record with a 58 on Thursday.

The Danish twins Nicolai and Rasmus Holgaard also maintained a competitive position at 23 under, following a solid round of 64.