US Open Drama at Oakmont Country Club

Oakmont Country Club seems to be, well, taking a toll on players this week. Leading up to the US Open, word spread about the challenging condition of the course—particularly the extremely thick rough.

Shane Lowry, for instance, faced difficulties right from the start. He shot a disappointing 9-over 79 in his first round, followed by a 78 on Friday, ultimately missing the cut.

His frustration was, perhaps, understandable. During the second round, he expressed his feelings loudly after missing a short putt on the 13th hole, muttering, “This place,” in clear annoyance.

But Lowry wasn’t the only one showing his emotions on the course. Rory McIlroy also didn’t hold back. In his first round, he vented his frustration into a microphone after struggling to find his ball in the rough. Then, quite dramatically, he knocked some audio equipment over in his irritation.

Concerns have been raised regarding the difficulties the course poses to competitors. McIlroy, who won the Masters earlier in April, remarked that it felt almost “impossible” at times.

Meanwhile, Sam Burns holds the solo lead on Saturday, sitting at 3 under par. JJ Spaun trails by a shot, with Viktor Hovland at -1. Ben Griffin and Adam Scott are tied for fourth at even par, amid some forecasts of inclement weather affecting tournament play.