Scottish golfer Robert MacIntyre began his pursuit of a breakthrough victory at the US Open with a solid opening round of 70 at Oakmont, showcasing his bold playing style that contrasts with the more conservative approaches of many players. MacIntyre, who has previously secured top-10 finishes in both The Open and the US PGA, has yet to make a significant mark in the US Open. His performance included three birdies and three bogeys, reflecting his adventurous approach to the game.
MacIntyre enjoys the thrill of taking risks on the course, often opting for challenging shots that might leave his caddie, Mike Burrow, questioning his decisions. He expressed, “I like hitting crazy shots… I’ve just got to ride the horse and just let the horse go at times,” emphasizing his willingness to embrace the unpredictability of the game.
As the tournament unfolds, the USGA has already set the stage for future US Open events, with venues confirmed up to 2042. Next year’s championship is set to take place at Shinnecock Hills in New York, while Pebble Beach and Winged Foot will host the events in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Oakmont’s treacherous conditions have led to the deployment of 90 volunteers tasked with spotting balls in the thick rough. This has made the tournament a considerable challenge for competitors. Amateur golfer Matt Vogt, after a round of 80, reflected on his struggles, stating, “It’s hard out here because you can’t make physical and mental errors.”
Defending champion Bryson DeChambeau also faced challenges, narrowly avoiding a penalty for a misjudged drop from the rough, demonstrating how unforgiving the conditions can be.
As the championship progresses, players like MacIntyre remain hopeful of harnessing their skills to navigate the demanding course and achieve their goals. Oakmont continues to test the limits of many golfers, providing an opportunity for thrilling displays of resilience and talent.