OLYMPIA FIELDS, Ill. – He didn’t go away. He didn’t shoot 90. He didn’t even fall off the first page of the leaderboard.

Tom Watson, one day removed from one of the most memorable and emotional days in U.S. Open history, remains in contention to win the 103rd Open at age 53 after finishing yesterday’s second round at 3-under for the tournament, just four shots off the lead.

The raw emotions that have followed Watson and his ALS-stricken caddie and friend, Bruce Edwards, remained present throughout Olympia Fields yesterday with fans yelling out, “C’mon Bruce, we’re pulling for you,” and, “You can beat this, Bruce.”

“He’s been with me for nearly 30 years,” Watson said of the courageous Edwards. “It’s special having him on the bag.”

It’ll be even more special if Watson can keep the magic going and win this Open.

Asked yesterday if he can win this, Watson said, “Yes, I can. A lot of things have to go right to beat the kids, but I have an outside chance. I’d like my last big run to be these last 36 holes. Then I might just say, ‘See you, boys and girls.’ “

Nick Price said he can “certainly relate” to what Watson is going through because he lost his caddie and friend, Jeff “Squeaky” Medlan, to leukemia.

“They’ve shared so many wonderful moments, not only in winning championships but also as friends and companions,” Price said. “I can understand the emotion they’re going through. I’m happy for Tom and Bruce that they’ve played well and they’re enjoying more of those moments.”