Mastering the Greens: Sam Burns Shines in the U.S. Open

The U.S. Open is renowned for its challenging courses and high-stakes competition, and this year at Oakmont, one golfer stands out: Sam Burns. Early Friday morning, the driving range was nearly empty as players focused on the course. However, Shane Lowry was hard at work, rehearsing his strokes with his coach in a bid to improve his game. With such pressure looming, the mental game of putting tends to drive many players to the brink of frustration. But while Lowry toiled, Burns demonstrated brilliance on the greens.

As Burns sank a stunning 21-foot birdie on the 11th hole, he was on fire, showcasing remarkable precision and skill. He recorded six consecutive one-putts during the round, effortlessly making birdies at the 17th, 18th, and 2nd holes. Even his two-putts were noteworthy, including a deft lag on a 106-footer that left him mere inches from the hole. His impressive round concluded with a curling 22-footer for par, earning him a remarkable score of 65, significantly better than the day’s scoring average.

While many pros emphasize the importance of long, straight drives to conquer Oakmont, it was Burns’ exceptional putting skills that catapulted him to the top of the leaderboard. He has been recognized as among the elite—over 99% of putters on the planet. His ability to effectively handle the flatstick in high-pressure situations has earned him acclaim, likening skilled putters to wizards capable of magical feats on the green.

The Evolution of Oakmont: Challenging the Best

The 2025 U.S. Open marks a significant change in Oakmont’s course, with greens now 15% larger than in previous years due to renovations. This adjustment transforms the greens into expansive avenues for competitive play, providing both opportunities and obstacles for golfers. The recent layout changes presented by the USGA has tasked players to navigate new hole locations that add complexity to their game strategy. The firmness of the turf and the lurking rough further complicate approach shots, making putting ever more critical to a golfer’s success.

Players like Jon Rahm have openly expressed their frustrations with the putting element of the game, highlighting how easy it can be to feel defeated when good strokes don’t yield results. "Very few rounds of golf I played in my life where I think I hit good putts and they didn’t sniff the hole," he shared. Such sentiments resonate strongly among competitors, underscoring the unpredictable nature of one of golf’s most scrutinized skills.

The Complex World of Putting

Putting, more than any other aspect of golf, combines both skill and mystique. Despite its visibility on broadcasts, the understanding of putting remains elusive, even among seasoned players. This year, Sam Burns and Bryson DeChambeau demonstrated their unique approaches to practice on the greens. Burns employed ten tees to refine his takeaway, while DeChambeau crafted a pathway with his implements. From these practice efforts emerge the essentials that lead to successful putting, demonstrating the players’ relentless pursuit of perfection.

Achieving proficiency in putting is anything but straightforward. Good putters make the craft appear natural, while those who struggle often liken it to chasing the holy grail. Corey Conners provides a prime example of this paradox; he’s adept at long-range shots yet finds putting a significant challenge. Interestingly, Conners led the field in Strokes Gained: Putting at this year’s U.S. Open, despite an erratic performance. His fluctuating example illustrates the unpredictable nature of putting as a skill that even the best can grapple with under pressure.

The Quest for Understanding

Denny McCarthy, celebrated for his putting prowess, emphasized that the essence of putting lies in instincts. He underscored that mere physical technique doesn’t guarantee success; reading the greens and feeling the shots is paramount. "You could have a perfect stroke, but if you’re not seeing the greens right, you might miss every putt," he explained. McCarthy’s insights serve as a reminder that the mental side is just as crucial in mastering this delicate art.

As Burns practiced alongside him, McCarthy noticed how quickly Burns was able to read the greens—a testament to his intuitive understanding of the sport. Committed to making decisive putts, Burns exhibits a confidence that sets him apart from his peers. This sense of decisiveness is likely a critical factor in achieving success on the challenging layout of Oakmont.

The Art of Decisiveness in Golf

In discussing his journey, Burns revealed the philosophy that guides his putting technique: simplicity. By focusing on the ball’s roll, acknowledging the imperfections present in the grass, and aiming for a good speed, he tries not to overthink the process. Burns embodies the idea that while the sport can often feel overwhelming, clarity and focus can lead to remarkable results on the course.

Like Burns, many golfers observe the parallels between putting and other sports. McCarthy, a basketball enthusiast, likens putting to shooting hoops. When facing struggles on the green, he advocates for a carefree attitude and continued practice. “Free it up even more, let it fly and be as carefree as possible. Just keep shooting,” he advises. Such comparisons bring to light the universal aspects of sports psychology that apply across disciplines.

The Thrill of Competition and Personal Progression

Burns’ path to golfing excellence began in childhood, nurtured by a family whose priorities leaned heavily toward football. After his mother’s compromise to provide a putting green if he completed a final year of football, Burns embraced the pursuit of golf. It was in that modest backyard setting that he honed the skills that would later define his professional career.

As the U.S. Open progresses, with Burns starting with a one-shot lead, the anticipation grows for 36 more holes filled with intense competition. With his exceptional mental game paired with refined putting skills, fans are eager to see if Burns can transform his early success into a major championship win.

The Psychology of Putting: A Journey Within

Finally, it’s crucial to recognize that the act of putting encompasses a unique psychological journey. The aspect of concentration, coupled with skillful execution, defines how top players like Burns manage to succeed where others falter. Each stroke on the green is laden with pressure, and yet, the greats find a way to channel that pressure into performance.

In a sport filled with uncertainties and variables, the quest for mastery in golf remains a lifelong pursuit. For innovative putters like Burns, the blend of technique, instinct, and mental fortitude creates a powerful formula for success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the U.S. Open unfolds, wondering if Burns can capitalize on his momentum and secure a place among golf’s elite. The art of putting may well determine who lifts the trophy and earns the right to be called a champion.

In Conclusion

The 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont not only highlights the physical challenges of professional golf but also delves into the psychological and strategic dimensions that constitute putting. As players like Sam Burns demonstrate, the path to success involves understanding the nuances of the game while also remaining adaptable to the ever-changing nature of the course. So, whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual observer, the spectacle of the U.S. Open provides a rich tapestry of skill, strategy, and psychological intrigue that draws everyone into the world of golf.