The 125th United States Open returns to the formidable Oakmont Country Club, a venue renowned for its difficulty and demanding conditions. Oakmont, with its 175 sand bunkers, thick rough, and lightning-fast greens, presents what is widely considered golf's toughest test.
Top Contenders at Oakmont
Dustin Johnson claimed victory at Oakmont in 2016 with a score of 4-under-par. This year, several top players are vying for the title. Scottie Scheffler (+270) and Bryson DeChambeau (+700) are among the favorites, both having demonstrated strong performances in recent majors. DeChambeau, who won at Pinehurst No. 2 last spring and at Winged Foot in 2020, finished T15 at Oakmont in 2016, his first major as a professional. Other notable contenders include Rory McIlroy (+1200), Jon Rahm (+1200), and Xander Schauffele (+2200).
Oakmont's Unique Challenges
Oakmont's reputation for challenging shots and mind-blowing course features is well-deserved. During a practice round, PGA Tour pro Zac Blair demonstrated this by using his putter from 122 yards to hit the green on the par-4 1st hole. This unconventional approach highlights the extreme speed of both the greens and fairways, where even slightly errant tee shots are severely penalized. Landing in the fairway doesn't guarantee a favorable second shot.
Rory McIlroy, the 2011 champion, finished runner-up to DeChambeau in 2024. Jon Rahm, the 2021 winner, missed the 2024 event due to a foot injury. The course demands precision and strategic play, making it a true test of skill and mental fortitude.
Strategies for Success
With Oakmont's unforgiving nature, players need to adopt innovative strategies. While Blair's putter shot was likely a playful experiment, it underscores the need for adaptability. Players may need to consider unconventional approaches to navigate the challenging layout.
Ultimately, the U.S. Open at Oakmont promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the world's best golfers as they battle for supremacy on one of the most demanding courses in the world.