Mastering the Greens: Jason Day’s Remarkable Journey at the 125th U.S. Open

By: Alan Bastable
Published on June 13, 2025

The 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club has provided an exhilarating platform for golfers to showcase their skills. Among the competitors, Jason Day’s performance has captured the spotlight, particularly his battle with the challenging greens that define Oakmont. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of his journey, the nuances of putting on these famed surfaces, and how Day turned his game around in a high-stakes setting.

Understanding Oakmont’s Unique Challenges

Oakmont has garnered a reputation for being one of the hardest golf courses in the world, plagued by its slick and undulating greens. According to experts, the combination of speed and slope presents a unique set of challenges for even the most skilled golfers. For players like Viktor Hovland and Sam Burns, mastering distance control is crucial for success in this unforgiving environment. Both athletes have echoed the sentiment that successful lag putting can make or break a round at Oakmont.

The Importance of Lag Putting

In his post-round comments, Viktor Hovland emphasized the significance of lag putting, recognizing the need to nestle the ball close to the hole instead of aiming to sink long putts. Burns experienced this firsthand, shooting an impressive 65 while focusing on minimizing his putting errors. This strategy allows players to mitigate the risks inherent to Oakmont’s greens, demonstrating the delicate balance between aggressiveness and caution.

Jason Day’s Early Struggles

Despite being an accomplished putter, Jason Day faced considerable challenges during his first round. He struggled significantly with short putts, missing five attempts from 12 feet or closer, resulting in a disappointing six-over 76. This performance left Day frustrated, particularly as he gave up 1.61 strokes to the field in putting alone.

Turning Point on the Practice Green

However, the story took a turn when Day sought refuge on the expansive practice area behind Oakmont’s 9th green. He took a hands-on approach to correct his putting woes by manually bending his TaylorMade Spider Tour putter. This action was reminiscent of his earlier days in the sport and reflected his commitment to reclaiming his form.

The Art of Putter Adjustment

Day’s decision to modify his putter revealed his deep understanding of equipment dynamics. He identified that his putter had a closed grip and decided to adjust it to appear more open. This act not only indicated a profound connection between golfer and equipment but also an innate desire to improve his game under pressure.

Revitalizing the Putt: A Glimpse of Brilliance

Following his adjustments, Day experienced a remarkable shift in his performance. In the second round, he transformed his game from mediocre to magnificent. Amid an average scoring environment that hovered around 76.4, he managed an exceptional three-under 67. His transformative performance was highlighted by four birdies and an eagle, demonstrating his newfound confidence on the greens.

Statistical Success: Tracking the Gains

Day’s second-round performance showcased significant improvements in putting, as he gained an impressive 1.66 strokes on the field. Among his standout moments, a 24-footer for birdie at the 7th and a 19-footer for eagle at the 12th reinforced his shifting momentum. His ability to recover and adapt was a testament to his resilience and skill as a seasoned golfer.

A Season’s Reflection

While Day’s past season was notable—finishing 9th on the Tour with a strokes-gained average of +0.541 in putting—this year’s metrics tell a different story. Currently ranking 113th (-0.060) in the same category, his struggles highlight the inherent pressures of maintaining consistent form in professional golf.

Conclusion: A Day to Remember

As Day looks ahead in the tournament, his journey at Oakmont serves as an inspiring narrative of adaptability and determination. His ability to recalibrate his game amidst challenges exemplifies the skill and mindset required to compete at the highest level. The 125th U.S. Open is not merely a test of skill; it’s a stage where golfers must confront not only the course but also their own limitations, making victories all the more sweet.

With each round, the pressure intensifies, but Jason Day’s recent resurgence has put him back into contention. The world will watch closely as he navigates the remaining rounds, eager to see whether he can harness his breakthrough into a historic finish. The art of putting, as Day has shown, is not just about technique but also about mental resilience—a lesson every golfer can take to heart.

Stay tuned for more updates as the U.S. Open unfolds, spotlighting not only the challenges faced at Oakmont but also the extraordinary performances of the game’s elite athletes.