U.S. Open 2023: Top Contenders Face Challenges at Oakmont

Early Struggles and Unexpected Setbacks

At Oakmont Country Club, the second day of the U.S. Open proved to be a test of resilience for golf’s elite. Among them, world number one Scottie Scheffler aimed to rebound after a rocky start, hoping to solidify his position as a favorite. However, his third tee shot-his 12th hole of the round-highlighted the difficulties he faced. After a promising birdie, Scheffler unleashed a drive that veered wildly off course, immediately signaling trouble.

“Ugh! Damn it!” Scheffler exclaimed, a rare display of frustration from the typically composed champion, as he slammed his club into the turf. His ball found its way into the notorious Church Pew bunkers on the left side of the fairway-an ominous omen for his round. The course’s unforgiving nature meant Scheffler would need a miracle to salvage the hole, and perhaps, the tournament.

Current Standings and Tournament Outlook

Starting the day with hopes of climbing the leaderboard, Scheffler managed to stay above the cut line but remained far from the leaders. His score of 71, combined with five bogeys, left him at 4-over-par after 36 holes. According to data from DataGolf, the cut line is projected to settle around 6 or 7 over par, meaning Scheffler’s chances hinge on a strong weekend performance.

“I’m not in the ideal position after two rounds,” Scheffler admitted, “but I still believe I can turn things around and make a run.”

Fellow Top Players Encounter Course Challenges

Many of golf’s top contenders faced similar hurdles on Oakmont’s brutal layout. Jon Rahm, a two-time major winner, started the day at 1-under but faltered with four bogeys and a double bogey, finishing with a 75. His total now stands at 4-over, tied with Scheffler. “Honestly, I’m too annoyed to see the bigger picture right now,” Rahm said, visibly frustrated. “It’s rare for me to hit good putts that don’t find the hole, and today was no exception.”

Brooks Koepka, a five-time major champion who missed the cut in the previous two majors, began the day well but struggled with inconsistency. His round of 74, marked by eight bogeys and four birdies, left him at 2-over for the tournament. Meanwhile, Jordan Spieth and Collin Morikawa posted scores of 75 and 74 respectively, both sitting at 5 and 4 over par.

Surprise Performers and Bright Spots

Despite the tough conditions, a handful of players shone brightly. American Sam Burns, who started at 2-over, delivered an impressive 65 with six birdies, catapulting him to 3-under for the event and potentially near the top of the leaderboard. “You have to play with freedom here,” Burns explained. “Trying to guide every shot is a losing battle. Sometimes, you just have to hit it with authority, even if it means risking the rough.”

Other notable performances included Jason Day, who eagled the 12th hole and shot a 67, bringing his total to 3-over. Viktor Hovland also displayed resilience, with a spectacular chip-in on the 17th and five birdies, finishing with a 68 at 1-under. His consistent play keeps him very much in contention as the weekend approaches.

Key Challenges and Strategies at Oakmont

Hitting the mark at Oakmont requires more than just skill; it demands strategic patience. Scheffler, who entered the tournament riding high after winning three of his last four events, has struggled to find his rhythm. His round was marred by only hitting 6 of 14 fairways and 7 of 18 greens in regulation, illustrating the course’s punishing nature.

“There are moments when you feel like giving up,” Scheffler reflected. “The course is so tough, and my swing wasn’t feeling right. But you have to stay patient, chip out, and see what you can salvage. That’s what I plan to do over the weekend.”

With a significant deficit to the leaders, Scheffler recognizes that making up ground will require others to falter. “At the U.S. Open, you’re never truly out of it,” he added, emphasizing the tournament’s unpredictable nature.

Understanding Oakmont’s Demanding Layout

As Scheffler explained, Oakmont’s difficulty isn’t rooted in complexity but in its relentless challenge. The course’s narrow fairways and thick rough demand precision, and missing a fairway often results in scrambling to save par from difficult positions. “Trying to force shots around here isn’t a winning strategy,” he said. “Hitting fairways and greens consistently is key, and I hope to do that more effectively in the coming rounds.”

Looking Ahead: The Road to the Title

With the weekend looming, the focus shifts to resilience and strategic play. While the leaders have established a lead, the tournament remains wide open. The brutal conditions at Oakmont have already claimed many favorites, and the final rounds promise to be a fierce battle of nerves and skill. For Scheffler and others trailing, the message is clear: stay patient, adapt to the course’s demands, and seize any opportunity that comes their way.