In a thrilling finish at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania, JJ Spaun captured his maiden major title at the US Open, outlasting Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre by two strokes with a breathtaking 64-foot birdie putt on a rain-drenched 18th green.
“It’s surreal to seal it like that,” the 34-year-old Californian said after his victory on Sunday. “This moment, at this championship, will stay with me forever.”
Spaun, who needed only a par on the final hole to secure the win and avoid a playoff, went one better with a dramatic putt that danced across the wet green, capping a chaotic final round.
The victory erased the sting of a playoff loss to Rory McIlroy at The Players Championship earlier this year, proving Spaun’s mettle among golf’s elite.
As the putt dropped, Spaun celebrated with a fist pump, tossed his putter aside, and embraced his caddie before sharing a heartfelt moment with his two young daughters on Father’s Day.
“Having my family there, especially on a day like this, was beyond special,” he said. “I’m still speechless.”
Tied with MacIntyre, who posted a two-under 68, Spaun reached the par-four 17th and unleashed a 309-yard drive that landed 17 feet from the pin. Though his eagle attempt slid past, he tapped in for birdie, setting the stage for his heroics on 18. “I avoided the leaderboard,” Spaun admitted. “I just wanted to stick to my game plan and not overthink it.”
The final round was disrupted by a 96-minute weather delay as heavy rain left fairways and greens waterlogged, forcing Oakmont’s grounds crew to scramble with squeegees to restore playability.
Spaun’s triumph follows his near-miss at The Players Championship, a setback that fueled his belief in competing with the best.
Norway’s Viktor Hovland (73) took third, three shots back, while Cameron Young (70), Tyrrell Hatton (72), and Carlos Ortiz (73) tied for fourth, a stroke further behind.
Sam Burns, who led by one entering the final round, faltered with a 78, finishing five shots off the pace alongside Adam Scott. Jon Rahm, starting the day 11 shots back, surged with a three-under 67, tying for seventh with world number one Scottie Scheffler (70).
Rory McIlroy, still seeking consistency since his Masters Grand Slam, also carded a 67, finishing at seven over.
Looking ahead to the British Open at Royal Portrush, McIlroy reflected, “I need to reset mentally. A break at home will help me recharge for what’s next.”
Source: Al Jazeera
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