The US Open 2025 is gearing up to be a brutal challenge at the iconic Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania. Known for its unforgiving rough, slick greens, and demanding layout, Oakmont is set to push golfers to their absolute limits. This year's tournament promises high drama and potentially high scores, offering a thrilling spectacle for viewers.
Oakmont's Reputation: Golf's Toughest Test
Oakmont has earned a reputation as one of the most challenging courses in the world, and the USGA embraces this identity. With thick rough exceeding five inches in some areas and notoriously difficult greens, even par will be a hard-fought victory. USGA CEO Mike Whan has stated the USGA aims to provide the toughest test in golf, meaning a regular return to Oakmont.
Betting Odds and Predictions
SportsLine's golf expert Eric Cohen has been analysing the field and the odds. Scottie Scheffler enters as the favourite at +280, followed by Bryson DeChambeau (+700), Rory McIlroy (+1100), and Jon Rahm (+1200). Cohen has identified potential longshot sleepers, including Corey Conners at +7000, noting his consistent performance in major tournaments. While he believes Scheffler is the favourite, he is advising against betting on DeChambeau.
What to Expect: Carnage and Chaos
Given the course's difficulty, experts predict a winning score around par, possibly even slightly over par. Don't expect a birdie-fest; Oakmont is designed to punish mistakes and reward resilience. Expect to see players battling not just the course, but also their own mental fortitude. Xander Schauffele summarised viewer's enjoyment in seeing top players suffer.
Key Challenges at Oakmont:
- Thick Rough: Stray from the fairway, and you'll find yourself in dense, penal rough.
- Undulating Greens: Oakmont's greens are notoriously fast and challenging to read.
- Length: The course is long, demanding powerful and accurate tee shots.
Prepare for a thrilling and demanding US Open at Oakmont. It's a tournament where survival is just as important as skill.