2025 U.S. OPEN PREVIEW: OAKMONT AWAITS – Golf News

The 2025 U.S. Open tees off this week at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania, one of the most iconic and demanding venues in major championship golf.

This will be the tenth time Oakmont has hosted the national championship, more than any other course in the United States, with a history dating back to 1927.

Famous for its brutal difficulty, Oakmont boasts lightning-fast greens, penal bunkering, and tight fairways that reward discipline over flair.

The par-70 layout plays over 7,200 yards, but distance is far from the only challenge. Even par is often enough to contend, and the winning score has rarely strayed far from level in recent editions.

HISTORY AND HAZARDS

Oakmont last hosted the U.S. Open in 2016, when Dustin Johnson captured his first major amid controversy over a potential rules infraction.

Previous winners at Oakmont include legends like Ben Hogan, Jack Nicklaus, Johnny Miller (who famously shot a final-round 63 in 1973), and Ernie Els. It’s a venue that demands precision, patience, and mental toughness.

The church pew bunkers between the 3rd and 4th holes remain one of golf’s most recognisable hazards, while the par-3 8th and the par-4 18th are perennial round-wreckers. With firm conditions expected and narrow landing zones, many players will take a conservative approach off the tee in hopes of avoiding disaster.

SCHEFFLER THE MAN TO BEAT

World number one Scottie Scheffler continues to set the standard in men’s golf, coming into the tournament off another dominant stretch. His ability to hit fairways and control trajectory makes him well-suited to Oakmont’s punishing layout. A U.S. Open win would add a third major to his resume.

RORY EYES ELUSIVE U.S. OPEN GLORY

Rory McIlroy, the 2011 champion, is still chasing his first major in over a decade. While Oakmont doesn’t naturally favor his aggressive style, his recent resurgence — highlighted by his Masters triumph — has put him back among the favourites. If he can rein in the driver and putt with confidence, he could contend deep into Sunday.

THE LIV CONTINGENT

Bryson DeChambeau, who won the U.S. Open in 2020 and 2024, will be among the most watched players from the LIV Golf circuit.

His overpowering style paid off at Winged Foot, another brutally difficult course, and he’s shown signs of form in recent months. Brooks Koepka, a two-time U.S. Open winner, also enters with something to prove after a middling season.

KEY CONTENDERS AND BETTING ODDS

Scottie Scheffler 11/4The clear No. 1 in the world, Scheffler’s ball-striking and consistency make him the man to beat at a place like Oakmont.

Rory McIlroy 8/1Looking to add to his Green Jacket, McIlroy has the tools, especially off the tee, to tame Oakmont, but his putting under pressure remains a question.

Bryson DeChambeau 8/1If the driver is accurate, DeChambeau’s length could give him an advantage. He’s shown he can handle the demands of a tough U.S. Open setup. Could he go back to back?

Xander Schauffele 20/1The 2024 PGA Champion has a strong record in U.S. Opens, with multiple top-10s. His all-around game and poise under pressure make him a safe bet to contend.

Jon Rahm 20/1The 2021 U.S. Open winner hasn’t been as dominant in 2025 but still has the game to battle Oakmont. His short game and mental toughness will be crucial.

Ludvig Åberg 22/1One of the rising stars in the game, the Swede’s elite ball-striking has impressed all year. If his putter heats up, a breakthrough major could be in the cards.

Justin Thomas 28/1Still searching for consistent form despite a win at Harbour Town, Thomas knows how to win majors. Oakmont may reward his creativity and grit, especially if conditions get tough.

Collin Morikawa 22/1A precision iron player like Morikawa is tailor-made for a course like Oakmont. If he finds fairways and greens, he could quietly climb the leaderboard. Seems to be on the leaderboard every week.

Brooks Koepka 40/1Despite some recent struggles, Koepka’s major pedigree is undeniable. He thrives in difficult conditions and shouldn’t be overlooked.

Jordan Spieth 50/1Still looking to complete the career Grand Slam, Spieth will need every bit of his short game wizardry to survive at Oakmont.

The U.S. Open at Oakmont promises a stern test and dramatic moments. With a stacked field and a historic venue, the 2025 championship has all the ingredients for an unforgettable week.

For full betting odds on the U.S. Open, please click here.