Two weeks after his sister Minjee won the U.S. Women's Open at Pine Needles, Min Woo Lee emerged as the leading Australian at the men's edition in Massachusetts.

But the 24-year-old’s hopes of following suit after a fine third-round of one-under-par 69 left Lee six shots off the pace are at long odds.

A topsy turvy leaderboard on Saturday eventually saw Will Zalatoris and Matt Fitzpatrick sit at the top on four-under.

Still, Lee took another big stride in his professional career with a steely display in typically tough U.S. Open conditions.

The Perth star rallied with two successive birdies to finish his round under par and edge back to two-over for the tournament.

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Sharing 17th spot on his U.S. Open debut, Lee will enter Sunday's final round with a shot of bettering his best major finish, a tie for 14th at his maiden Masters in April.

Veterans Adam Scott and Marc Leishman are the next best Australians in a tie for 33rd at four-over.

Scott carded a two-over 72, with Leishman posting a 73.

After a golden start to his round, Todd Sinnott finished at six over following a 74.

The qualifier opened with two birdies in the first five holes to claw his way back to level with the card, but racked up three bogeys and a double on the back nine.