The 2025 U.S. Open is officially underway at the historic Oakmont Country Club, a course renowned for its difficulty and demanding layout. The USGA has once again assembled a stellar field of 156 of the world's top golfers, all vying for the coveted title. Play began Thursday, June 12, with players facing Oakmont's notoriously challenging greens, thick rough, and strategically placed bunkers.
Several intriguing pairings mark the first round. Xander Schauffele, Jose Luis Ballester, and defending champion Bryson DeChambeau teed off early, creating a compelling group featuring the reigning U.S. Open, Open Championship, and U.S. Amateur champions. Another featured group in the morning included Matt Fitzpatrick, Wyndham Clark, and Gary Woodland, all major champions, promising an exciting start to their U.S. Open campaigns.
The afternoon wave boasted its own share of star power. Scottie Scheffler, the world number one and pre-tournament favorite, began his quest for a first U.S. Open title alongside Viktor Hovland and Collin Morikawa. Just before them, three former U.S. Open champions – Jordan Spieth, Jon Rahm, and Dustin Johnson – started their rounds, adding another layer of intrigue to the day's play.
Other notable pairings include Ryder Cup veterans Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, and Rory McIlroy. Ludvig Åberg, Adam Scott, and Hideki Matsuyama, representing international talent, also created a group to watch.
The U.S. Open is known for its rigorous test of golf, and Oakmont is expected to live up to its reputation. The course demands precision and strategic play, with its undulating fairways, penal bunkers, and greens that can reach speeds of up to 15 on the Stimpmeter. Players will need to exhibit exceptional ball-striking to avoid the thick rough and hold the firm, fast greens.
Several players are considered strong contenders for the title. Scottie Scheffler enters the tournament in dominant form, having won three of his last four starts. Bryson DeChambeau, the defending champion, has a strong track record in major championships and a T15 finish at Oakmont in 2016. Rory McIlroy, fresh off completing the career Grand Slam at the Masters, is also a top contender, though he acknowledges needing to rediscover his form off the tee. Other players to watch include Jon Rahm, Xander Schauffele, and Collin Morikawa, all of whom have demonstrated their ability to perform well in major championships.
The U.S. Open offers extensive TV and streaming coverage for fans to follow the action. USA Network will broadcast the first-round coverage, with streaming available on Peacock, USOpen.com, and the USGA app. Peacock will also provide exclusive late-round coverage.
The 2025 U.S. Open promises to be a compelling tournament, with a challenging course, a star-studded field, and plenty of drama. Golf fans can anticipate thrilling competition as the world's best golfers battle for the title at Oakmont.
