The U.S. Open will be returning to Pinehurst No. 2 for a fourth time in 2024, with previous championships held there in 1999, 2005, and 2014. The USGA has designated Pinehurst as an anchor site, ensuring it will host the tournament four more times in the future. Each of the previous championships at Pinehurst had unique winners and memorable moments.
In 1999, Payne Stewart emerged victorious after sinking a 15-foot par putt to beat Phil Mickelson by a single shot. Stewart was the only golfer in red numbers that year, finishing at 1 under. Tragically, Stewart passed away in a plane crash four months later. A statue was erected in his honor at Pinehurst, capturing his iconic celebration after winning the U.S. Open.
The 2005 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 saw Michael Campbell as the only golfer in red numbers after his final-round 69. This victory marked Campbell’s one and only major title and PGA Tour win. Tiger Woods finished two shots behind Campbell after a costly three-putt on the 17th hole. Campbell became the second golfer from New Zealand to win a major championship.
In 2014, Martin Kaymer put on a dominant performance at Pinehurst, securing a wire-to-wire victory with a record-breaking 36-hole total of 130. His eight-shot margin of victory over Rickie Fowler and Erik Compton was one of the largest in U.S. Open history. Kaymer’s win solidified his status as a top player in the world of golf.
The upcoming 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst will showcase the rich history and tradition of the tournament, with the course providing a challenging and picturesque setting for the competition. The legacy of past champions like Payne Stewart, Michael Campbell, and Martin Kaymer will be celebrated as the world’s best golfers compete for the title.
Pinehurst No. 2’s designation as an anchor site for the U.S. Open ensures that it will remain a prominent venue for the tournament in the coming years. The course’s reputation for hosting exciting and dramatic championships will continue to attract players and spectators alike. The legacy of champions at Pinehurst will be remembered and honored as the tournament returns to this historic venue.
With only eight courses having hosted more U.S. Opens than Pinehurst No. 2, the significance of this venue in the history of the tournament cannot be understated. The challenging layout and unique characteristics of the course have provided a memorable stage for past champions to showcase their skills. As the U.S. Open returns to Pinehurst in 2024 and beyond, fans can look forward to witnessing more unforgettable moments and performances on one of golf’s most iconic courses.
