The 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania has delivered yet another intense chapter of golf’s premier test of skill and endurance. Heading into the final round, Sam Burns holds the lead, making a push for his first major championship victory. The leaderboard is tightly packed, with only four players—Burns, Adam Scott, Viktor Hovland, and J.J. Spaun—currently under par, underscoring the challenge Oakmont presents to even the most experienced professionals.
Oakmont, a historic course known for its difficulty, has lived up to its reputation throughout the week. Designed by Henry Fownes in 1903, the par 70 layout stretches 7,342 yards, demanding precision, strategy, and resilience from the players. The course is infamous for its sloping greens, deep bunkers, and treacherous rough, which have already caused significant challenges for many of the field’s top golfers. With an emphasis on accuracy over distance, Oakmont has tested even the most seasoned professionals, ensuring that the final round will be anything but predictable.
Among the key figures in contention for the U.S. Open title, Sam Burns has been a standout. The 27-year-old has made a name for himself on the PGA Tour with his steady play and a calm demeanor under pressure. His performance through the first three rounds of the U.S. Open has shown that he is more than capable of handling the fierce conditions that Oakmont demands. Burns, who has earned several top finishes in recent years, will be looking to secure his first major title as he heads into the final round.
In close pursuit of Burns are Adam Scott, Viktor Hovland, and J.J. Spaun, all of whom are within striking distance heading into Sunday. Scott, a former world number one, is no stranger to the pressure of major tournaments. The Australian has consistently competed at the highest level and will be looking to capture his second U.S. Open title, having previously won in 2014. Meanwhile, Viktor Hovland, the Norwegian star, has been gaining traction in the golfing world with his impressive consistency. Hovland’s game is built on a solid tee-to-green performance, and his focus will be on maintaining that level of play to challenge for the top spot. J.J. Spaun, another strong contender, has been quietly making a name for himself and will likely be one to watch in the final round.
While the leaderboard may be tight, the course itself remains the most formidable opponent for the remaining players. Oakmont is known for being one of the most difficult courses in the world, and the punishing rough has claimed several high-profile victims this week. The difficulty is reflected in the fact that only four players have managed to stay under par, highlighting how tough the test has been.
This year’s U.S. Open has seen its share of surprises, particularly with the absence of defending champion Bryson DeChambeau, who failed to make the cut. DeChambeau, who triumphed in last year’s championship, struggled to find his rhythm at Oakmont and will not be able to defend his title. The decision to miss the cut leaves the door open for a new champion to emerge. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, who has consistently been one of golf’s most celebrated players, also found himself battling a difficult stretch. McIlroy, who has not claimed a major title since 2014, has endured a lackluster performance and admitted his play has been “pretty average.” Frustration over his own game and the scrutiny from the press have kept McIlroy from engaging with media outlets, adding to the tension surrounding his performance.
For golf fans eager to follow the action as the final round unfolds, there are multiple ways to tune in. Broadcast coverage will be available on talkSPORT, Sky Sports Golf, and other affiliated channels, ensuring that fans around the world can catch every moment of the drama as it unfolds. With the leaderboard so close and Oakmont’s notoriously difficult holes looming large, the final day of the U.S. Open promises to be an exciting conclusion to a thrilling tournament.
As the remaining players prepare for their final rounds, the question of who will emerge as the U.S. Open champion remains wide open. For Sam Burns, it could be the chance of a lifetime to secure his first major win, while veterans like Scott and Hovland are still in the hunt for their first U.S. Open title. The stage is set for a dramatic finish at one of golf’s most iconic courses.
