A new era

While 34-year-old Tiger Woods is struggling at three-under-par in 31st place after the third round, the 20-somethings, Generation Tiger, are dominating the top of the leaderboard.

Nick Watney (29), Dustin Johnson (26) and Rory McIlroy (21) will battle it out for the chance to claim their first Major title and announce the dawning of the post-Tiger era.

"The younger guys are coming," McIlroy said. "Technology in the last 10 years has definitely helped young guys come put here so good so early. They can take on shots that others maybe can't."

Watney takes a three-shot lead and the role of Johnson at the US Open and Louis Oosthuizen at the Open. Watney will be looking to emulate the South African rather than the American. Johnson will be looking to make amends for blowing a six-shot lead at Pebble Beach. McIlroy will be hoping for redemption for that second-round 80 at St Andrews that ruined his week at the Home of Golf.

"I realise I have a good chance," McIlroy said. "I know I've never been this much in contention before but winning in Dubai and at Quail Hollow gives me confidence that I can do it."