Fowler shoots 64 to open up 4-shot lead at Phoenix Open

Rickie Fowler carded an unwavering 7-under 64 in Round 3 of the Waste Management Phoenix Open, giving him a commanding four-shot lead with 18 holes left to play.

The 30-year-old began Saturday with a one-shot edge but quickly pulled away from the field with birdies on four of his opening six holes at TPC Scottsdale. He recorded three birdies on the back nine to get to 20-under for the tournament.

Fowler, who finished tied for 11th after holding the 54-hole lead at last year's Phoenix Open, is looking to collect his fifth PGA Tour victory.

Oddly enough, the last player to hold consecutive 54-hole leads at the Phoenix Open was Johnny Miller, who retired from broadcasting at the conclusion of Saturday's round after spending 29 years in the booth with NBC.

Matt Kuchar is the closest chaser to Fowler. He fired his second straight 6-under 65 to climb into second place.

Fowler's housemate for the week in Phoenix, Justin Thomas, sits five shots behind in third after signing for a 68.

Byeong Hun An (13-under), Branden Grace (13-under), Gary Woodland (12-under), and Bubba Watson (12-under) round out the top seven.