With drama building at every hole, Watson, Westwood tied for lead of improbable British Open

Watson, Westwood tied for lead at dramatic Open

TURNBERRY, Scotland — Tom Watson is tied with England’s Lee Westwood for the British Open lead with three holes remaining as he tries to become the oldest major champion in golf history.

The 59-year-old Watson struggled to a 37 on the front side, giving away the one-shot lead he had after 54 holes. Westwood led by two at the turn over Watson and his partner in the final group, Mathew Goggin of Australia.

Watson bogeyed the 14th, but Westwood gave the stroke right back with a bogey of his own at 15. They were tied at 2 under, with Goggin another stroke behind after two straight bogeys.

Watson is a five-time Open champion who would easily be the oldest golfer ever to win a major. Julius Boros was 48 when he captured the 1968 PGA Championship.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

TURNBERRY, Scotland (AP) — Tom Watson, trying to become the oldest major champion in golf history, was in a three-way tie for the British Open lead with six holes remaining.

The 59-year-old Watson struggled to a 37 on the front side, giving away the one-shot lead he had after 54 holes. England’s Lee Westwood led by two at the turn over Watson and his playing partner, Mathew Goggin of Australia.

But Westwood bogeyed the 10th and Watson made his longest putt of the day at No. 11, rolling in a 25-footer for birdie. That created a deadlock at 3 under that also included Goggin.

Watson is a five-time Open champion who would easily be the oldest golfer ever to win a major. Julius Boros was 48 when he captured the 1968 PGA Championship.