US Open
Bryson DeChambeau Wins Thrilling US Open Leave Rory McIlroy in Agony
The final round was a rollercoaster of emotions for both players
PINEHURST, N.C. — In a dramatic and nerve-wracking finale at Pinehurst No. 2, Bryson DeChambeau clinched his second U.S. Open title, edging out Rory McIlroy by a single stroke. The 2024 U.S. Open will be remembered for its intense psychological battle and the heartache it brought to McIlroy, who came agonizingly close to ending his decade-long major championship drought.
DeChambeau, who began the final round with a three-shot lead, faced a series of challenges that tested his resilience and skill. His drive on the 18th hole landed near a tree root, and his second shot found a bunker. However, DeChambeau's third shot, a brilliant bunker play, brought him within four feet of the hole. He sank the par putt, securing his victory and igniting a roar from the crowd.
The final round was a rollercoaster of emotions for both players. McIlroy, who started the day three shots behind DeChambeau, quickly closed the gap with a birdie on the first hole. He continued his impressive play with birdies on the 9th, 10th, and 12th holes, taking a two-shot lead with five holes remaining. However, the unpredictable nature of Pinehurst No. 2 soon turned the tide.
McIlroy's fortunes shifted dramatically on the 15th hole when his tee shot found a hazard, leading to a bogey. He then missed a short par putt on the 16th hole, dropping him back to a tie with DeChambeau. The tension mounted as both players approached the final holes, with McIlroy missing another crucial putt on the 18th, leaving the door open for DeChambeau to claim victory.
DeChambeau's triumph was a testament to his mental fortitude and strategic approach. Throughout the tournament, he employed a disciplined game plan, focusing on accuracy and conservative decisions off the tee. His ability to scramble from difficult lies and make crucial putts under pressure ultimately carried him to victory.
The win marked DeChambeau's second U.S. Open title, following his first in 2020 at Winged Foot. It also placed him among an elite group of golfers who have won multiple U.S. Opens before the age of 30, joining legends like Jack Nicklaus, Ernie Els, Tiger Woods, and Brooks Koepka.
McIlroy, on the other hand, was left to ponder another near-miss in his quest for a fifth major title. The Northern Irishman has not won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship, and this latest disappointment extends his wait for another major victory. Despite his commendable performance throughout the tournament, McIlroy's missed opportunities on the final holes will undoubtedly haunt him.
The 2024 U.S. Open was not just a battle between DeChambeau and McIlroy. Patrick Cantlay and Tony Finau tied for third place at four-under, while Matthieu Pavon finished fifth at three-under. The tournament showcased the depth of talent in the field and the high level of competition among the world's best golfers.
Reactions to DeChambeau's victory poured in from across the golf world. Phil Mickelson, Patrick Mahomes, and Brooks Koepka were among those who applauded his performance. Mickelson tweeted, "Bryson is a STALLION! What a thrilling US Open and amazing performance. Congrats on a great win @b_dechambeau. No one works harder, deserves it more, and is more fun to watch."
DeChambeau's win also sparked discussions about the challenges faced by LIV Golf players in qualifying for events like the Olympics. Despite his strong performance, DeChambeau will not represent the United States at the 2024 Paris Olympics due to his association with LIV Golf and the disconnect between that tour and the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR).
As the dust settles on a thrilling U.S. Open, DeChambeau's victory will be remembered as a defining moment in his career. His ability to perform under pressure and his strategic approach to the game have solidified his position as one of the top golfers in the world. For McIlroy, the wait for another major title continues, but his determination and skill ensure that he will remain a formidable competitor in the years to come.