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Chris Kirk emerges with 1-shot lead going into Players final round filled with possibilities

Associated Press
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Sergio Garcia, of Spain, pumps his fist after making an eagle shot on the second hole during the third round of The Players Championship golf tournament Saturday, May 9, 2015, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) (The Associated Press)

Ben Martin watches his shot from the 15th fairway during the third round of The Players Championship golf tournament Saturday, May 9, 2015, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux) (The Associated Press)

Chris Kirk bounced back from a rough patch with three straight birdies to take a one-shot lead at The Players Championship going into a final round that is very much up for grabs.

Kirk had a 4-under 68 and had the lead to himself after Kevin Na three-putted for a double bogey on the 18th hole.

Sixteen players were separated by three shots going into the final round on a TPC Sawgrass course that can be punishing and rewarding at any minute and on any hole.

Rory McIlroy was among those four shots behind.

Tiger Woods was nowhere to be found. He had a pair of double bogeys on par 5s — that's a first for him in his career — and matched his worst score at Sawgrass at 75.