J.J. Spaun Leads at U.S. Open with Support from His Wife Melody

OAKMONT, Pa. — J.J. Spaun captured the spotlight as the first-round leader at the U.S. Open held at Oakmont Country Club. On Thursday, Spaun shot a remarkable score of 66, showcasing four birdies and no bogeys.

Cheering for him from the sidelines was his wife, Melody, whom he married in 2019. Spaun and Melody met in 2013 through mutual friends, and their relationship has blossomed ever since. Despite being an avid supporter of her husband, Melody initially didn’t know much about golf. Spaun recalled, “On our first date, she was like, ‘I don’t care. What does it mean to be a pro golfer?’”

Melody first joined J.J. on the tour at the Northern Trust Open in 2016. Spaun shared how intimidated she felt at the time, saying, “This is the life you’re going to live, get used to it.” Now, they have two young daughters together, Emerson and Violet.

To maintain a healthy work-life balance, Melody helps J.J. stick to a “five-hour rule,” which he described as a way to focus on his practice in the mornings and spend time with family in the afternoons. “It makes me productive,” said Spaun, who is proving to be a strong contender in this tournament.

As Spaun stepped onto the course at Oakmont, he was reminded of a movie he watched on a flight last December, which inspired him not to give up on his career. He expressed his desire to embrace the pressure of competition, mentioning how he sought to perform better when in difficult situations.

Thursday’s score not only put Spaun in the lead but also showcased his rising confidence. “I’ve been consistently right there, and everyone knows that the more you put yourself there, the better you’ll play,” he said. As Spaun prepares for the second round on Friday, he reflects on the challenges ahead.