The 2025 US Open: A Look at the Field and Notable Absentees

The anticipation for the 2025 US Open is mounting as the field is nearly finalized following the pivotal qualifying rounds known as the Longest Day in Golf. This year, the competition will unfold at historic Oakmont Country Club, one of the sport’s most prestigious venues. With 10 qualifying sites hosting 36-hole tournaments, the stakes were high as players vied for a coveted spot in the lineup. This year’s event will see most of the world’s best players, including those in the top 60 of the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and past US Open champions, compete for glory.

However, amidst the excitement, several notable names will be absent from this year’s tournament. A deep dive into the participants reveals some surprising exclusions that could impact the dynamics of the competition.

Tiger Woods: A Major Absence

No analysis of the US Open would be complete without mentioning Tiger Woods, a three-time champion and 15-time Major winner. Unfortunately, injuries continue to plague the legendary golfer, resulting in his absence at Oakmont. After undergoing surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon in March, Woods has officially withdrawn from the 2025 season. This marks his fourth US Open missed in five years, which speaks volumes about the impact of physical limitations on even the greatest of athletes.

Woods last played at the 2024 US Open at Pinehurst, where he struggled and missed the cut. With no official return date announced, speculations suggest he may attempt to make a comeback at the PNC Championship later this year, where playing from a cart is permitted.

Sergio Garcia: A Streak Comes to an End

Another significant absence is Sergio Garcia, who recently experienced a disappointing exit from the US Open qualifying rounds in Dallas. The Spaniard’s failure to qualify means he will miss the US Open for the first time since 1999, ending a remarkable 25-year run. His disappointing performance, which included a costly three-putt on his last hole to finish one stroke shy of a playoff, represents a missed opportunity that could affect his Ryder Cup aspirations.

Garcia, known for being a fierce competitor, has not yet qualified for The Open either, despite playing in the Masters and PGA Championship earlier this year. His absence will surely leave a void in the competitive landscape of the tournament.

Max Homa: A Streak Snapped

Max Homa, a six-time PGA Tour winner, finds himself on the sidelines as well. Once ranked within the top 10 globally, Homa’s form has diminished, resulting in a current ranking of 90th in the world. After a consistent streak of 21 straight Major appearances, the Californian faced disappointment during qualifying for the US Open, missing his final hole and subsequently losing out in a playoff.

This will be Homa’s first missed Major since 2019, marking a significant shift in his career trajectory. Fans will be eager to see if he can reclaim his former glory following this setback.

Rickie Fowler: Missed Opportunities

Rickie Fowler also faced heartbreak during the qualifying rounds, missing his third US Open in the last five years. Like Homa, he was unable to convert his performance into qualification, resulting in a playoff elimination alongside other notable competitors. Fowler has shown glimpses of resurgence, recently qualifying for The Open, thus allowing him to participate in two Major events this year.

Fowler’s past successes, including a T2 finish at Pinehurst in 2014, have made him a fan favorite, and his absence from the US Open will be felt.

Will Zalatoris: Recovering from Injury

Will Zalatoris, who finished as runner-up in the previous year’s event, is ensuring his health takes precedence as he sits out this year due to a second back surgery. After re-herniating two discs, the talented American will be sidelined not only from the US Open but also the upcoming Open Championship.

Zalatoris has expressed optimism about returning to competitive golf by fall, but his absence this year will be a significant loss, especially considering his track record in Major tournaments.

Billy Horschel: Focus on Recovery

Two-time BMW PGA Championship winner Billy Horschel is another prominent absentee after undergoing hip surgery last month. Horschel aims to make a comeback in the late summer or fall but will miss the US Open for the second time since his 2013 debut. Known for his competitive spirit, his absence will likely affect his chances of participating in the Ryder Cup.

Alex Noren: Close Call

Alex Noren, who has been a staple in the US Open roster with 11 appearances, fell short this year. After a promising performance in the recent PGA Championship, Noren missed qualification for Oakmont by a narrow margin, finishing three strokes behind the playoff cutoff. His experience and skill will surely be missed at the tournament.

Luke Clanton: A New Journey Begins

Rising star Luke Clanton, who made headlines during his amateur career, faced disappointment in his quest to qualify for the US Open. His poor performance during the 36-hole qualifier has led him to make his professional debut at the RBC Canadian Open instead. Though he aims to develop his skills and gain experience, missing out on the US Open represents a setback for the young talent.

Conclusion: Excitement and Anticipation for Oakmont

As the field gears up for the 2025 US Open, fans and players alike will miss some of golf’s most exciting talents. The absence of figures like Tiger Woods and Sergio Garcia, coupled with the unavailability of players like Homa, Horschel, Zalatoris, and others, creates a mix of excitement and anticipation. Will a new champion emerge amidst the unpredictability, or will the pressure lead to a familiar face reclaiming the title? Only time will tell, but Oakmont is sure to deliver an unforgettable golfing experience as the world tunes in to watch the drama unfold.