J.J. Spaun: A Rollercoaster Round at the 2025 U.S. Open

By: Josh Berhow
June 15, 2025

OAKMONT, Pa. — In a dramatic final round at the 2025 U.S. Open, J.J. Spaun faced both triumph and turmoil as he navigated the challenging Oakmont Country Club. Spaun, 34, was hoping for a turnaround but found himself grappling with unexpected misfortunes, particularly after an unfortunate series of events on key holes.

As Spaun approached the 2nd hole after a frustrating bogey on the first, his hopes were high. Standing at 93 yards from the pin, he executed a spinny wedge shot that seemed destined for glory. Broadcaster Dan Hicks remarked, “On a good line,” reinforcing the optimism surrounding Spaun’s approach shot that had fans on the edge of their seats. However, the golf gods had other plans. The ball ricocheted off the flagstick, showing immense spin, before rolling dramatically down the slope, ending up an astounding 49 yards away from the hole.

The par-4 2nd hole at Oakmont presents golfers with a tricky green, characterized by a pronounced back-to-front tilt. Experts like Kevin Kisner highlighted the difficulty, noting that Spaun’s unfortunate luck was one of the worst breaks seen all week. The broadcast team provided visual aid showing the precise locations of Spaun’s second shot, its landing, and the final resting spot—illustrating just how cruel golf can be.

After the chaos of the 2nd hole, Spaun faced a challenging pitch from 49 yards. He skillfully executed it within 8 feet of the hole but still missed the par putt. This marked his second consecutive bogey, leaving him frustrated as he stared down the remaining 14 holes of his round.

The challenges continued for Spaun on the 4th hole, where yet another stroke of bad luck unfolded. After driving close to the infamous "church pew bunkers," his ball encountered a rake left on the course, diverting it into the rough. Commentator Kisner aptly stated, “He’s due for some good bounces on the last 14,” highlighting a sense of hope as Spaun sought redemption.

As he continued on the course, the pressure heightened. Spaun wasn’t just playing for himself; he was in hot pursuit of the 54-hole leader, Sam Burns. The stakes were climbing as spectators could follow the weekend action, tracking players in real-time on the U.S. Open website.

Spaun’s determination and skill were evident as he attempted to claw back the ground lost to misfortune. Golf, often dubbed a game of inches, proved how the minutiae can dramatically affect outcomes. His experience reinforced just how pivotal each shot is, especially in a major tournament setting where every stroke matters.

The U.S. Open at Oakmont has a storied history of witnessing incredible talent and unforeseen challenges. Some of the game’s greatest players have emerged victorious here, while others have faced heartbreak. For Spaun, the day involved a blend of hope and despair, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of golf.

As the final round continued, fans rallied for Spaun, recalling every extraordinary moment that defines the U.S. Open. His journey through that round serves as a poignant reminder that while golf is an individual sport, the emotional highs and lows shared by players and fans alike create a unique atmosphere that can be felt across the course.

In conclusion, J.J. Spaun’s experience at the 2025 U.S. Open embodies the essence of the game. Misfortunes can strike when least expected, but resilience shines through. As fans await Spaun’s next steps, the world of golf remains captivated by the uncertainty and excitement that each tournament brings. The search for glory continues, reminding everyone that, in golf, anything can happen—and often does.