Mediate mesmerised by Woods

US Open contender Rocco Mediate has admitted that he was amazed by Tiger Woods' third round at the US Open.

The 45-year-old veteran was on top for most of the third day at Torrey Pines with a lead of three strokes before a combination of Woods' two eagles and Mediate's missed shots left Tiger on top going into the final day.

"He's the best that ever played," said four-times tour winner Mediate when talking about Woods.

"He's the best that ever walked on grass that played golf, whether he beats Jack's record or not, forget it."

Woods is hoping to beat Jack Nicklaus' 18 major triumphants as he bids to win his 3rd US Open title and 14th major.

Tiger trailed Mediate by five strokes when he teed off at the 13th but ended up finishing the day two shots ahead of the 22-year PGA competitor.

"It's just the most amazing display of athletic, mental power that there is, there ever was," continued Mediate. "Completely out of his mind. The stuff he does, it's unreal."

"When I had the lead, I was nervous, very nervous but very comfortable

"It was a good nervous. I'm ecstatic, that's the best I've played in that type of situation consistently...in a major event. I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I can't wait to see what happens."