Struggling Stars as U.S. Open Leaders Shine at Oakmont

OAKMONT, Pa. — After two days at the U.S. Open, only three players out of 156 remain under par at Oakmont Country Club. The surprising leaderboard features J.J. Spaun, Sam Burns, and Viktor Hovland as the title contenders heading into the weekend.

As the tournament passed its halfway point, Spaun had crafted a remarkable run, shooting a bogey-free 66 in the first round and finishing Thursday with a score of 4-under. Golf analysts have noted that historically, most U.S. Open winners find themselves in the top five after 36 holes, raising questions about whether this trend will continue at this year’s event.

“I think there might be 10 to 15 golfers who could win at this point,” said ESPN’s Mark Schlabach. “Spaun is in impressive form, but with conditions changing quickly, anyone can make a comeback.”

The weather has been a barrier for many golfers. A torrential downpour hit Friday night, altering the course’s difficulty. With a forecast for further rain and thunderstorms, some believe the track will play softer, potentially leading to better scores.

Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked No. 1 in the world, clocked in at 3-over par Friday, facing frustrations as he fought to regain momentum. “At the U.S. Open, I don’t think you’re ever out of the tournament,” Scheffler said. Despite sitting seven shots back, he remains confident about his chances if the course conditions favor aggressive play.

Burns, who has struggled in past majors, is now finding success. He had 11 birdies in the first two rounds and holds a shared lead. “I think it forces you to take your medicine,” he said, emphasizing the importance of adaptability on tough courses.

Despite the challenging tests, players like Brooks Koepka and Jordan Spieth have once again shown promise as they navigate Oakmont’s unforgiving landscape. With only two rounds remaining, all eyes will be on the leaderboard and the shifting circumstances that could affect the final outcome.

As the weekend approaches, golf fans are eager to see if an unexpected champion will emerge from the pack given Oakmont’s tough conditions and the high stakes of championship golf.