156 Players Tackle the Legendary Challenge of Oakmont Country Club

OAKMONT, Pa. — Oakmont Country Club is hosting the U.S. Open for the 10th time, making it the most played site in tournament history. This iconic course, designed by Henry Fownes, presents a formidable challenge for 156 golfers from around the world this week.

As players step onto the greens, they are greeted by a stunning sight: a sprawling 191 acres of meticulously maintained grass. “When you stand on the first tee, you get a complete view of the layout,” said a member of the USGA setup team. Oakmont is as beautiful as it is daunting, often likened to a “steel-toed boot” waiting to deliver its famous kick.

Many players consider Oakmont one of the most stressful courses in the world. Scottie Scheffler, a leading player on the odds list, remarked, “This is probably the hardest golf course that we’ll play. Maybe ever.” The course is known for its demanding layout that tests both mental and physical endurance.

The U.S. Open’s standards have evolved from punishing roughs and large trees to a more sophisticated approach emphasizing the course’s original architecture. Golf course architect Gil Hanse, who recently restored Oakmont, noted, “They’re embracing the original architecture and not trying to fit a model.”

Historically, the winning score at Oakmont has never been lower than 5-under par, with only 2% of players finishing under par. The club culture values toughness, and changes have consistently focused on increasing the course’s difficulty.

“It better not be easier when you’re done,” Hanse recalled the members stressing during the restoration discussions. The thickness of the rough, now over five inches, adds another layer of challenge this week.

While Oakmont’s tricky shots and fast greens may intimidate some players, others view it as a necessary test for today’s athletes. “You can’t let it go too far,” said Hall, a course representative. “You have to find the fine line between difficult and impossible.”

Players know that precision is critical on this course, where both strength and finesse are required. “You go to a place like this, and you don’t need to trick it up for it to challenge our game,” said one competitor.

Defending champion Bryson DeChambeau described Oakmont as probably the toughest golf course in the world, highlighting its strategic demands. “It’s not just about power. You have to be a fraction more strategic, especially with the rough being so long.”

As the tournament unfolds, players will navigate not only their competitors but also the complexities of Oakmont. A mistake on the greens, known for their challenging slopes, could quickly end a round or a tournament.

“You know you’re going to get penalized even on good shots, and that’s just part of this golf course,” said one competitor who’s familiar with the challenges. The players are ready to face all that Oakmont has to offer.