Spaun Stuns at Oakmont, Secures U.S. Open Title
Underdog’s Stunning Finish Caps a Wild Tournament
In a Father’s Day showdown at Oakmont, J.J. Spaun seized the U.S. Open title with an electrifying birdie on the 72nd hole. His breathtaking 64-foot putt secured a victory, etching his name in tournament lore after a day of unexpected twists and turns.
Spaun’s Epic Victory
Spaun, at 34, defied expectations after a rough start. He was five shots behind the 54-hole leader, Sam Burns. His approach shot on the second hole hit the flagstick and rolled back off the green. But he rallied. Spaun opened with a bogey-free 66 on Thursday. On Sunday, he shot a final round of 72, finishing 1-under at 279, which earned him the trophy.
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“Viktor [Hovland], we kind of got a good line, a good read on the speed. I was more focused on how hard he was hitting it,”
—J.J. Spaun
The winner’s check was the biggest of his career. Spaun also earned a five-year exemption onto the PGA Tour. According to the PGA, the average age of the top ten golfers in the world is 30.1 years old (PGA Tour).
Course Challenges and Key Moments
Spaun‘s early struggles were quickly overshadowed by a pivotal weather delay. His coaches urged him to stay calm. Emerging from the break, he found his rhythm, sinking a 40-foot birdie putt on the 12th. Sam Burns, in a dramatic turn, faltered, allowing Spaun to take the lead. Adam Scott was also affected, shooting a 79.
The iconic putt on the 18th gave a week of struggle a joyous climax. Spaun‘s performance will be remembered as a testament to perseverance. Robert MacIntyre finished second.