Kuchar posted his second successive round of 70 to claim a two-shot lead from fellow Americans Kevin Chappell (68) and Kyle Stanley (73).

CNN: Tiger Woods rues 'rough day' at Memorial

Fellow Ryder Cup star Lee Westwood was well placed after a 66 for nine-under 134, sharing third spot with Swede Henrik Stenson and Kevin Chappell.

CNN: Garcia leads Players from confident Woods

Kuchar missed only one fairway and held off a hard-charging Kevin Chappell over the last three holes to close with a 4-under 68 for a two-shot victory.

NPR: Kuchar Holds On To Win Memorial