As the U.S. Open kicks off on Thursday at Sinek Hills, several golfers stand out as ones to keep an eye on.
Scotty Scheffler
Despite not having the best season lately and feeling some frustration after his performance at the Memorial, Scheffler has held the No. 1 ranking for three years. He has secured 14 wins since 2024, including seven last year. The U.S. Open remains the only major title eluding him, and this is his first attempt at a career Grand Slam. Given his talent for striking the ball, it’s hard to overlook him.
Rory McIlroy
McIlroy isn’t chasing a career slam, having achieved it last year with his Masters victory, which he successfully defended in April. Currently ranked second in the world, he seems to be playing without pressure, much like Tiger Woods did in his heyday after completing his own Grand Slam. Now, he’s all about chasing the big titles.
Matt Fitzpatrick
Although Fitzpatrick has slowed down after three wins earlier this season, his solid gameplay and determination helped him clinch the U.S. Open title in 2022. He has gained strength and confidence, contributing to his competitive edge.
Cam Young
The golfer from Sleepy Hollow Country Club had a strong year, winning two significant tournaments: The Players Championship and the Cadillac Championship. Having shown great performance at Northeast courses, including Bethpage Black in the Ryder Cup, Young’s improved putting and longer drives off the tee will serve him well at the U.S. Open.
Brooks Koepka
Returning to the PGA Tour after his time with LIV Golf, Koepka’s past successes in major tournaments, particularly at venues where he has won before, make him a serious contender. He previously won the U.S. Open at Shinnecock, and his familiarity with the course gives him an advantage.
Tommy Fleetwood
Is this Fleetwood’s moment? He nearly stole the championship from Koepka in 2018 with a final round of 63, finishing just one stroke behind. While he has only one PGA Tour win under his belt, he remains consistently competitive, with six top-10 finishes this year. However, he did struggle at the Masters, finishing T-33, and missed out on qualifying for the PGA.
Chris Gotterup
Gotterup has had an impressive start this season, with two wins already and four in the past two years. He tied for 10th at the PGA last month. His ability to hit low and accurately could be beneficial for him at Shinnecock.
JJ Spahn
The defending champion who triumphed at Oakmont last year has been on a roll. Spahn has shown strong performance this season but faced setbacks by not qualifying for the Masters or the PGA. Defending a major title can be quite the challenge.
Xander Schauffele
Remember the player who won both the British Open and the PGA Championship in 2024? Schauffele has been playing well, tying for third at The Players and making several other strong finishes, yet he hasn’t managed to secure a win. This might just be the week for him to make it happen, as he consistently places in the top ranks during majors.
Justin Rose
At 45, Rose is a contender who isn’t backing down. Having won the U.S. Open in 2013, he continues to perform well, recently finishing 3rd at the Masters and holding a strong track record at big events. His experience could see him climb the leaderboards again this week.
Jon Rahm
Among the LIV golfers in the field, Rahm seems to have the best shot at victory. With a solid track record at the U.S. Open, including a win in 2021, he’s performed well in various majors recently, fighting for top positions.
Bryson DeChambeau
DeChambeau, a two-time U.S. Open champion, has been asserting himself again, claiming to be close to his best golf. However, he struggled in the majors this year, missing the cut at the Masters and PGA Championships.
