Five Key Storylines to Watch at This Week’s U.S. Open Golf Championship
As the world’s best golfers prepare to tee off at Oakmont Country Club for the U.S. Open from June 12-15, several intriguing storylines are emerging that could shape the tournament’s outcome. Here’s what to watch:
Red-Hot Scheffler
Scottie Scheffler enters the U.S. Open as the clear favorite, riding a wave of momentum with three victories in his last four PGA Tour starts, each by a margin of at least four strokes. The world No. 1, who had his season delayed by hand surgery from a kitchen accident last December, is now in peak form. Scheffler recently matched the PGA Tour record for 72-hole scoring with a stunning 31-under total at TPC Craig Ranch, won the PGA Championship by five strokes, and claimed victory at Muirfield Village in his final tune-up before the U.S. Open.
DeChambeau Double?
Defending champion Bryson DeChambeau aims to become the first player since Brooks Koepka in 2018 to win back-to-back U.S. Open titles. DeChambeau, known for his powerful drives and clutch performances, made a crucial par save on the final hole to secure last year’s victory. As he prepares for his first major since finishing as the runner-up at the PGA Championship, DeChambeau looks to build on his impressive record with seven top-10 finishes in 12 majors since joining LIV Golf.
Rory Redo
Rory McIlroy, fresh off completing a career Grand Slam at the Masters, seeks to regain his major-winning form after a disappointing finish at the PGA Championship. The Northern Irishman has been consistent at the U.S. Open, achieving six consecutive top-10 finishes, but has endured heartbreak with back-to-back runner-up finishes in the last two years. McIlroy will need to improve his accuracy off the tee, especially after struggling with equipment issues in his recent tournament.
Mickelson’s Grand Slam Bid
This year marks a pivotal moment for Phil Mickelson, as he seeks the one major title that has eluded him: the U.S. Open. The 54-year-old six-time major champion is in the final year of his five-year exemption following his 2021 PGA Championship win. Having finished as the U.S. Open runner-up six times, Mickelson faces a challenging course at Oakmont, where he has experienced mixed results in the past.
Daunting Oakmont
Oakmont Country Club, often regarded as the toughest course in the U.S., is set to challenge players with its punishing rough, narrow fairways, and lightning-fast greens. Hosting the U.S. Open for a record 10th time, the par-70 course will play at 7,372 yards. Historically, scoring averages have hovered at least two strokes over par, making it a true test of skill and endurance.
