The US Open Golf Championship is one of the most celebrated events in the golfing world, attracting top talent from various golf tours across the globe. As we gear up for this year's tournament, anticipation is at an all-time high. In this comprehensive preview, we will delve into the key players, the challenging course, and what to expect from this thrilling event. Get ready for an unforgettable journey on the path to glory at the US Open!
Scottie Scheffler is once again the favourite to lift the trophy at the end of this week's tournament at the prestigious Pinehurst No. 2 but best believe there is still room for a special script to unfold, with an unlikely champion emerging.
Let’s take a closer look at what the venue, lineup of players, and event have in store for golf enthusiasts.
Setting the Stage for this American Major
Pinehurst No. 2, located in the Sandhills of North Carolina, is a masterpiece designed by legendary golf course architect Donald Ross. Known for its undulating greens and strategic bunkering, this historic course has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and other elite tournaments. The challenging layout and pristine conditions make it a favorite among both professionals and amateurs. The conditions for this year's tournament are harder and faster than years gone by and might add to the already challenging greenside plays.
Course Highlights - Signature Holes:
Hole No. 5 at Pinehurst No. 2 is a visually stunning par-5 with a strategic layout. The generous landing area off the tee invites big drives, but long hitters must decide whether to lay up or risk going for the green in two. The elevated green complex is flanked by sand traps, making the approach tricky. The fairway’s right-to-left slope adds a challenge to both second and approach shots. Precision on the green is crucial, with subtle contours demanding careful placement for a chance at a getable eagle putt.
Hole No. 15 at Pinehurst No. 2 is a formidable par 3, stretching 199 yards. This green, meticulously renovated by the renowned Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw*, now mirrors its original size, making it the smallest on the course, second only to No. 5. Approach shots landing on the front will inevitably settle in a collection area, while the bunker to the right stands as a perilous hazard. The green’s deceptive false front aggressively repels short shots to the right. Pinehurst’s par threes, positioned late in each nine, are the epitome of challenge and reward, and No. 15, with its intimidating layout and subtle nuances, promises a thrilling test of precision and strategy.
*Bill Coore, the North Carolina native whose accidental journey into golf course design led him to partner with Ben Crenshaw in creating iconic courses like Bandon Dunes. Coore's philosophy seamlessly blends natural contours with innovative design
Championship Legacy
Pinehurst No. 2 boasts a storied legacy, having hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open, U.S. Amateur, and the PGA Championship. Designed by Donald Ross, its challenging layout has tested the world’s best golfers, with its unique, crowned greens and sandy waste areas. The course's rich history continues to captivate players and spectators alike, celebrated for its enduring blend of tradition and tough competition. Pinehurst No. 2 remains a symbol of excellence in the world of golf.
Weather Conditions
This week is shaping up to be the brightest of the Major season, with temperatures soaring to a sweltering 34°C (94°F). AccuWeather predicts that with barely any wind, averaging only 11 km/h, the "real feel" temperature could climb into the high 30s. While there is a slim chance of scattered thunderstorms on Friday and Saturday, the overall outlook remains hot and dry, creating firm and fast conditions on one of golf’s most challenging courses.
Thursday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high of 31°C (81°F) and a mere 16% chance of rain to start off the tournament. The sun will be relentless throughout the weekend, making the Pinehurst’s No. 2 Course extremely firm and bouncy, setting the stage for a gripping and demanding US Open.
The Field of Players
The USGA's mantra of inclusivity is evident, with over 10,000 players vying for just 156 spots. Players had to navigate through numerous qualifiers across the globe, with dramatic stories emerging, from amateurs clinching their spots to seasoned pros like Webb Simpson and Sergio Garcia making comebacks.
The field boasts a compelling mix of talent, with defending champion Wyndham Clark and golf legend Tiger Woods, who received a special exemption, leading the pack. The final exemptions were secured by players ranked in the top 60 of the Official World Golf Ranking, including Robert MacIntyre and Adam Scott, whose participation was confirmed only after the Memorial Tournament last week. Also joining the fray are Sergio Garcia, amateur Brendan Valdes, Otto Black, and Maxwell Moldovan, who advanced from the alternate list. The competition is further intensified by the presence of golf's elite, with Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, the season’s major winners, setting the tone. Rory McIlroy, now ranked third globally, aims to break his major drought, eyeing his first U.S. Open victory in a decade. The question remains: will the 2024 US Open crown go to one of golf’s new stars or one of its enduring legends?
You can find the full field of players involved in this week’s major here:
Tee Fee’s Top Picks for this Week’s Major
Scottie Scheffler - At this point in the golf season, there is no write up needed for why he is one of our top picks. As long as he is swinging a golf club, he is a Tee Fee top pick.
Collin Morikawa - with six PGA Tour victories, including two major championships: the 2020 PGA Championship and the 2021 Open Championship. Starting his PGA Tour career with 22 consecutive made cuts, he ranks just behind Tiger Woods in this feat. Morikawa has the accolades and form to push for another major win. He is also a fan favourite at Tee Fee HQ.
Christiaan Bezuidenhout - is a proven professional with three European Tour victories. He clinched his first win at the 2019 Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucía Masters and followed up with back-to-back wins at the 2020 Alfred Dunhill Championship and South African Open. Bezuidenhout’s consistent performance has established him as a prominent figure in international golf. He is currently 8th in strokes gained putting in the PGA Tour this season, this is an area of everyone's games that will be well and truly tested on the undulating greens at Pinehurst.
Si Woo Kim - He made history in 2017 by becoming the youngest winner of the Players Championship at just 21 years old. Known for his skill and determination, Kim continues to make significant strides in professional golf. The bookies have him finishing as the 4th best Korean player this week, but we think he is one to watch when it comes to leading the whole pack.
Honourable mention to Tommy Fleetwood, there is just something about how he finishes each swing that says he will finally win that first major title.
Is the Champion in our Top Picks?
Is Tiger Woods a Golfing Legend, of course yes!
Unfortunately the writer this week missed the boat.
As the US Open approaches, the excitement at Tee Fee HQ is palpable. We’re thrilled to bring you our first US Open Golf Tournament Review, diving deep into the course, the players, and all the key highlights. Share your thoughts and predictions with us as we gear up for this thrilling event. Stay tuned for more insights and coverage from the world of golf, right here on Tee Fee!
Comments