The 2025 U.S. Open is set to begin June 12 at Oakmont Country Club in suburban Pittsburgh—marking the 125th edition of golf’s most grueling major championship. Oakmont, hosting a record‑tying tenth Open, stands as one of America’s toughest courses, famed for its narrow fairways, punishing rough, lightning‑fast greens, and deep bunkers.
Oakmont’s Brutal Conditions
Several high-profile contenders have already felt Oakmont’s wrath. Rory McIlroy, during a recent practice round, carded a triple-bogey on No. 2 and bogeyed No. 8 despite well-struck shots. Adam Scott, too, shot three-over on the first nine after hitting every fairway—an unsettling sign of the course’s difficulty. Veteran Shane Lowry once even walked off after five holes in 2016, only to return and nearly win—a reminder of Oakmont’s unforgiving nature. Rain is expected to complicate matters further. Forecasts show early‑week thunderstorms potentially softening greens before weekend drying increases difficulty. Additionally, the manicured bunkers and ankle-deep rough—part of a recent restoration effort—have become even more punitive.
Storylines and Title Contenders
Mayor among the contenders is Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, coming off dominant wins at the PGA Championship and The Memorial. He’ll enter Oakmont as a formidable favorite. Rory McIlroy, fresh from completing his career Grand Slam, seeks redemption after struggles in recent Opens. Meanwhile, Bryson DeChambeau, last year’s champion at Pinehurst, is aiming to become the first back-to-back winner since 2018. Keep an eye on sleeper candidates too: Shane Lowry, Jordan Spieth, Sepp Straka, and Harris English have all impressed with current form and course history.
Unique Rules & Challenges
Oakmont’s quirks aren’t just environmental. The ninth hole features a massive 22,365 sq ft green that doubles as the practice putting surface. Players must stay on the correct side of a painted boundary—straying during warm-up means disqualification. Course setup emphasizes accuracy and nerve, especially with nearly 30 players finishing under-par in all previous Opens here.
What’s at Stake
Oakmont’s unforgiving layout sets the stage for a championship that will demand both resilience and precision. With weather threats looming and the course primed to penalize any errant shot, only those at the top of their mental and physical game will thrive. Will Scheffler solidify his dominance? Can McIlroy and DeChambeau respond under pressure? Or will a dark horse emerge on this brutal battlefield?
One thing is certain: the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont promises to be a dramatic clash where every fairway hit—and missed—will define the week.