J.J. Spaun Crowned US Open Champion at Oakmont
In a day marked by adverse weather conditions and challenging play, J.J. Spaun achieved an impactful victory at the 125th US Open, held at Oakmont Country Club. Spaun, overcoming a complicated start, prevailed over his competitors to secure his first major championship with a two-stroke lead.
The culmination of the tournament was dramatic. Spaun, after a crucial birdie on the 17th hole that put him one stroke ahead, sealed his triumph with an impressive 64.5-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole. This play secured his victory, leaving the Scottish Robert MacIntyre two strokes behind.
Spaun’s emotion was evident as he dropped his putter, raised his arms, and celebrated with the crowd. Afterwards, he shared hugs with his caddie, Mark Carens, and his family, including his wife Melody and his daughters.
Spaun stood out as the only player to finish under par, with a total of 1-under par, 279. His performance on Sunday included a pair of 70s and an impressive 3-under par performance on the last nine holes. For this victory, Spaun will receive a prize of $4.3 million, the largest of his career.
MacIntyre, who aspired to be the first left-handed golfer to win the US Open, finished with 1-over par, 281.
Viktor Hovland, from Norway, placed third with 2 over par, 282.
Spaun took the lead at par by reaching the green with a 309-yard drive on the 17th hole. Although his eagle attempt from 18 feet was unsuccessful, he managed a 3.5-foot birdie to take the lead.
In the 18th hole, Spaun directed his tee shot towards the right side of the fairway. As he prepared for his second shot, the rain intensified, further soaking the course. Spaun managed a 64.5-foot approach, setting the stage for a memorable finish.
Spaun started the day just one stroke behind the leader, Sam Burns, but fell four strokes back after recording bogeys on five of his first six holes.
Spaun, 34, became the first US Open winner to start his final round with three consecutive holes over par, according to data from Elias Sports Bureau.
This was the most significant moment in Spaun’s career. His only previous victory on the PGA Tour was at the 2022 Valero Texas Open. Currently ranked 25th in the Official World Golf Ranking, Spaun has demonstrated exceptional play this year.
The final round at Oakmont Country Club was an event full of emotions, including a 96-minute interruption due to weather and constant rain, which increased the difficulty of one of the world’s most demanding golf courses.
Several players shared the lead in the final round, with five of them tied for first place at one point.
MacIntyre had a chance to tie, but his 33-foot birdie attempt on the 18th hole came up short, finishing with a 68, 2 under par, in the final round.
