The Struggles of Will Chandler at the 2025 U.S. Open

By: Nick Piastowski | June 13, 2025

OAKMONT, Pa. — The 2025 U.S. Open has already captured the golf world’s attention, but one moment, in particular, has gone viral. Will Chandler, a 27-year-old professional golfer hailing from Sea Island, Georgia, experienced a rollercoaster of emotions during his second round at the storied Oakmont Country Club. A video capturing a critical moment of Chandler’s round has made waves on social media, drawing in nearly 250,000 views within a few hours.

It all began at the second hole, where Chandler struck his second shot only to realize quickly that he had misjudged the distance. His ball landed short of the back pin placement, rolling back down the slope and resulting in a painfully evident double-bogey 6. This moment wasn’t just an unfortunate mishap on the course; it became a metaphor for the challenges he faced throughout the round.

Chandler’s struggle didn’t end there. On the first green, he attempted a long putt from roughly 75 feet but overshot, leaving the ball 30 feet past the hole. This miscalculation led to yet another double bogey. Things escalated dramatically at the third hole where Chandler’s tee shot found the notorious Church Pew bunkers. After an arduous seven shots to finally complete the hole, he faced a daunting quad bogey.

Facing adversity, Chandler carved through the front nine in a staggering 12-over 47. Given the course’s daunting layout, he would need to significantly improve on his final nine just to avoid a historically high score. Unfortunately, the uphill battle continued as he bogeyed the 10th. Yet, in a glimmer of hope, he managed to par the 11th and then birdied the 12th, after executing a precise third shot that landed a mere three feet from the hole.

However, consistency proved elusive. As Chandler approached the 15th hole, it played its role in his narrative, biting him with yet another double bogey. Yet, displaying resilience, he managed to par the subsequent holes, holding on through the tumultuous second round.

It was on the 18th hole that Chandler faced his final challenge of the day. With a score of 14-over for the round and 22-over for the championship, he hit his first shot into the right rough but redeemed himself with a second shot that gracefully landed on the back-right part of the green. The anticipation was palpable as he prepared for his final putt.

As the crowd watched, Chandler lined up with a keen focus and took a deep breath. His putt eased toward the hole, and for a suspenseful moment, it appeared as if a miracle might unfold. Fans began to cheer, urging him on, but ultimately, his ball settled five feet from the hole, yet again reminding everyone of the day’s ups and downs.

Finishing his round with a 14-over 84 and a total score of 22 over for the tournament, Chandler’s performance became a blend of setbacks that evoked both frustration and admiration. While the social media highlights showcased the harsh realities of the game, the applause he received from Oakmont’s fans served as a reminder of the deep passion for golf — both its trials and triumphs.

The bittersweet saga of Will Chandler at the 2025 U.S. Open paints a vivid picture of the challenges a golfer can encounter on such an esteemed stage. As he walked off the course amid cheers and sympathetic applause from fans, Chandler exemplified the spirit of resilience. His journey serves as a crucial reminder that every round, regardless of the score, contributes to the intricate tapestry of a golfer’s career.

In the wake of his struggles, Chandler can take solace in the rich history of Oakmont, a venue that has witnessed numerous ups and downs throughout its storied existence. As he processes his performance, fans eagerly await his return to the course, hoping to see him rise above adversity with renewed determination.

Boxing against the sea of social media commentary, Will Chandler has solidified a chapter in this year’s U.S. Open narrative. Whether in struggles or moments of brilliance, the essence of the game remains steadfast—a constant reminder of the trials and tribulations that shape the life of a professional golfer. A blend of defeat and hope, Chandler’s experience resonates with both amateurs and seasoned fanatics alike.

As the tournament advances and the competitive landscape takes shape, Will Chandler’s exploits at the 2025 U.S. Open will undoubtedly serve as a talking point—a testament to the sport’s emotional weight and the unyielding spirit of those who dare to play at the game’s highest level.