On June 16th, 2025, J.J. Spaun captured his first major at the 125th U.S. Open, taming a "brute" Oakmont with a dramatic 65-foot putt after a pivotal weather delay, while 54-hole leaders faltered spectacularly.
J.J. SPAUN'S U.S. OPEN TRIUMPH
- Marquee storyline: J.J. Spaun battled to be the sole player under par, securing his maiden major at Oakmont with a final round 72, highlighted by a stunning 65-foot birdie on the 18th after a crucial weather delay.
- Supporting stat or quote: Spaun credited the mid-round stoppage: "The weather delay changed the whole vibe of the day," turning his fortunes after five early bogeys. His winning score was one-under 279 (66-72-69-72).
- Human angle or fun fact: His victory was a testament to resilience on a day many others succumbed to Oakmont's pressure, especially after making that incredible 65-footer to seal it.
OAKMONT'S FINAL ROUND CASUALTIES
- Marquee storyline: The "brute" nature of Oakmont claimed its victims as 54-hole leaders Sam Burns and Adam Scott endured "gut wrenching collapses," their U.S. Open hopes dissolving in the final round pressure cooker.
- Supporting stat or quote: Burns stumbled to a 78, stating, "I didn't have my best stuff today," while Scott carded a 79.
- Human angle or fun fact: Adam Scott lamented a "really weak putt" on the sixth hole as a key moment his championship aspirations began to fade.
THE CHALLENGERS AND THEIR STORIES
- Marquee storyline: Robert MacIntyre fired a brilliant 68 to finish runner-up. Viktor Hovland took third despite missed chances, while Rory McIlroy (Sunday 67) and Scottie Scheffler (T7) showed late form.
- Supporting stat or quote: MacIntyre embraced the challenge ("Why not it be me today?"), while Hovland called Spaun's winning putt "absolutely filthy" but rued his own "three five footers" missed. Tyrrell Hatton (T4) exclaimed, "What a putt to win. That's incredible."
- Human angle or fun fact: McIlroy, after his strong Sunday, admitted post-Masters "Everest" fatigue and asserted his right to manage media: "I feel like I've earned the right to do whatever I want to do."
THE BEAST OF OAKMONT
- Marquee storyline: Oakmont Country Club reaffirmed its fearsome reputation, with a punishing 74.18 final round scoring average, "wet and nasty" conditions, and its 15th hole playing toughest, truly testing the elite field.
- Supporting stat or quote: The course's difficulty was underscored by its high scoring average and Matt Fitzpatrick's critique that conditions felt "unfair." Jon Rahm's final round 67 was a standout against the grain.
- Human angle or fun fact: Despite the brutal test, the drama it produced, culminating in Spaun's incredible win, made for an unforgettable U.S. Open. Carlos Ortiz also secured a T4 finish.
Quick Hits
Justin Hastings claims low amateur honors • Corey Conners withdraws mid-tournament • Ryan Fox delivers a notable performance
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