U.S. Open golf - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. History: The U.S. Open is one of the four major championships in professional golf, along with The Masters, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. It was first played in 1895 and is organized by the United States Golf Association (USGA).
- 2. Course rotation: The U.S. Open is played on a different golf course each year, with a rotation of iconic venues such as Pebble Beach, Oakmont, Winged Foot, and Shinnecock Hills. The courses are known for their challenging layouts and demanding conditions.
- 3. Qualifying: The U.S. Open is open to both professional and amateur golfers, with players qualifying through a series of regional and sectional tournaments. The field is typically around 156 players, with a mix of top-ranked professionals and up-and-coming amateurs.
- 4. Format: The U.S. Open is a four-round stroke play tournament, with the player shooting the lowest score over 72 holes declared the winner. In the event of a tie, a playoff is held to determine the champion.
- 5. Prize money: The U.S. Open offers one of the largest purses in professional golf, with the winner typically receiving a prize in the millions of dollars. The total purse for the 2021 U.S. Open was $12.5 million, with the winner, Jon Rahm, taking home $2.25 million.
- 6. Notable champions: The U.S. Open has been won by some of the greatest golfers in history, including Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Ben Hogan, and Bobby Jones. Phil Mickelson, who won his first U.S. Open in 2021, completed the career Grand Slam with his victory.
- 7. Course setup: The USGA is known for setting up the golf course in a way that challenges the players and tests their skills. This often includes narrow fairways, thick rough, fast greens, and strategically placed hazards.
- 8. Weather: The U.S. Open is typically played in June, which can bring a variety of weather conditions, including high temperatures, strong winds, and the occasional thunderstorm. Players must be prepared for all types of weather during the tournament.
- 9. Drama: The U.S. Open has a history of producing dramatic moments, from clutch putts and chip-ins to epic comebacks and heartbreaking collapses. The pressure of competing in a major championship often leads to thrilling finishes and memorable performances.
- 10. Fan experience: The U.S. Open offers a unique experience for fans, with the opportunity to watch the world's best golfers up close and personal. Spectators can follow their favorite players around the course, interact with them during practice rounds, and enjoy the atmosphere of a major championship.