Pinehurst Resort has long been known as the “home of American golf,” drawing comparisons to the renowned St. Andrews in Scotland. The recent U.S. Open held at Pinehurst reinforced this reputation and solidified the connection between the two iconic golf destinations. Pinehurst president Tom Pashley acknowledged that the title of the “St. Andrews of American golf” was once more of an aspiration, but now with the U.S. Open being hosted at the resort every five or six years, the presence of the national governing body, and Donald Ross’ masterpiece course, Pinehurst truly lives up to the comparison.
The charm and character of Pinehurst were on full display during the U.S. Open, with its quaint village, chapel carillon, pubs, restaurants, and shops creating a welcoming atmosphere for players and spectators alike. While Pinehurst No. 2 was the star of the tournament, the fierce competition between top golfers like Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy took center stage.
DeChambeau’s dynamic style of play earned him praise, while McIlroy’s continued near misses at the U.S. Open highlighted his desire to change the narrative surrounding his performances in major championships. Other notable moments included Ludwig Aberg and Tony Finau falling victim to a challenging hole and Scottie Scheffler posting his first birdie-free round in a major.
Veteran golfer Sergio Garcia impressed with a bogey-free round, and Francesco Molinari’s miraculous hole-in-one secured him a spot in the weekend rounds. However, Viktor Hovland struggled with an early setback but managed to bounce back in the second round.
Young talents like David Puig and Matthieu Pavon showcased their skills, while veterans like Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson faced challenges during the tournament. Tiger Woods, a nine-time USGA champion, continued to struggle with his form, raising questions about his ability to compete at the highest level.
Overall, the U.S. Open at Pinehurst was filled with memorable moments, competitive performances, and surprises that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
