The one time of the year all golfers look forward to – the playing of the Men’s US Open! One of the most challenging sporting events in the world where the best golfers in the world face a golf course designed to test all of their skills, mental game and patience. For the fan it provides a week of golf excitement.
Looking back on the US Open and there have been surprises, drama and downright unbelievable golf. Examples from the US Open history books;
2015 – Dustin Johnson three putts 18 to give the championship to Jordan Spieth
2000 – Tiger Woods winning by 15 strokes at Pebble Beach
1999 – Payne Stewart birding #18 at Pinehurst to beat Phil Mickelson. Months later Payne was killed in plane tragedy on his way to Houston for the Tournament of Champions.
1990 – Hale Irwin at the age of 45 wins at Medinah.
1988-89 – Curtis Strange was the last player to win back to back US Open’s
1962 – Hello world meet Jack Nicklaus as he beats Arnie at Oakmont for his 1st
The US Open provides the opportunity for an unknown to realize their dream. Scott Simpson, Michael Campbell, Lucas Glover, Corey Pavin and Andy North won twice to realize their dreams. Who knows what player will find his game and his inner peace to win the 2016 US Open? If you go with long off the tee and great putter – Jason Day, Rory McIlroy or Justin Rose. If you go sentimental – Jim Furyk, Phil Mickelson or Retief Goosen. If you go young – Spencer Levin, Bryson DeChambeau or Matthew Fitzpatrick. What about an amateur – Sam Burns, Justin Suh or Scottie Scheffler. Perhaps one for the ages with 52 year old Wes Short.
Golf Channel has started the US Open Championship at Oakmont. There will be hours of analysis and competition to enjoy. So pull up an easy chair, send the wife and kids to the movies and enjoy the US Open.