US Open Highlights: Ryan McCormick’s Experience at Oakmont

Oakmont, Pa. — Ryan McCormick faced challenges on Friday, finishing with a score of seven over par in the US Open at Oakmont. Playing in his first major championship, he was excited to be there, but his experience was mixed.

After completing his third round with a score of 76 on Saturday, McCormick, one of five players from the Metro Area competing, didn’t hide his disappointment. He pointed out that players on the Corn Ferry Tour don’t receive points in major qualifying events, which he finds frustrating.

“It’s really frustrating,” McCormick, hailing from Middletown, New Jersey, remarked. “It’s the only tour in the world where you can’t earn points to qualify for majors. I mean, that’s just absurd.”

Despite the difficulties, the 13-year-old embraced the challenges presented by the USGA during the US Open.

“I love it here,” he said. “It’s tough, and you really have to hit quality shots. You’ve got to think about your strategy. It’s you against the course, and that’s exciting.”

His fellow local player, James Nicholas, shot 75 but ended the day at 12 over par.

Meanwhile, Westchester’s Cameron Young managed to stay competitive, finishing the day at three over par with a score of 69.

Chris Gottap from Fairhaven, New Jersey, shot 69 as well, bringing his score to four over par.

Max Glazerman, also from New Jersey, remained at four over after a round of 71 on Saturday.

Keegan Bradley, the captain for the US Ryder Cup, expressed confidence in Sam Burns, who finished the day with a remarkable 65. That score is one of the best recorded at Oakmont in US Open history.

“He’s an incredible player,” Bradley said, mentioning that Burns has been rising to the occasion lately.

Bradley shared his thoughts on the USGA’s regulations regarding club usage, stating he disagreed with some of their policies. “We’re professional golfers. We need to be at the top of our game, no matter the event—be it the US Open or otherwise,” he argued.

Philip Burberry Jr., who qualified for the tournament, faced his own set of challenges. After weather delays forced him to return early on Saturday to finish the second round, he had to convert a crucial five-foot putt to finish at seven over.

Burberry, who previously competed in the US Open in 2018, reflected on the pressure he felt. “I had to focus especially when starting at one of the toughest holes,” he shared after completing a round of 75.

Among the 15 amateur players, Justin Hastings was the only one to make the cut, finishing at six over par with a score of 73 on Saturday. Hastings plans to turn pro after the British Open next month.

Earlier Saturday, golfing legends Jack Nicklaus and Johnny Miller reminisced about their past wins at Oakmont during a press conference. Nicklaus described the competitive environment back then, particularly the importance of beating Arnold Palmer.

“At 22 years old, I had no clue about Oakmont,” Nicklaus reflected. “I didn’t realize I was in Palmer’s territory.” Both players reacted to the significant prize money this week, acknowledging the changes in golf over the years.

“Did it change our lives? I hope not,” he concluded.