Pros Lambast Oakmont’s Relentless Rough
Top names like Bryson DeChambeau and Ludvig Åberg have publicly griped about Oakmont’s famously punishing five-inch rough. DeChambeau described one lie as “complete guesswork” and quipped, “This is the hardest this golf course could ever play right now,” after wrestling his ball out of dense fescue and scrambling for a par.
Influencers vs. Professionals Debate
In a recent Instagram chat, golf influencer Roger Steele admitted, “Damn, that course was hard,” to which Paige Spiranac laughed and countered, “We’re hosting pros, not golf influencers.” She insists that U.S. Open venues should push elite players to their limits—exactly what Oakmont delivers.
Schauffele and Thomas Embrace the Challenge
Xander Schauffele owns up to enjoying the torture, admitting, “Maybe I’m just sick and enjoy the challenge.” Justin Thomas stresses the mental battle: “Second-guessing yourself is where you get in trouble,” and candidly hopes Oakmont’s brutality “psychs a lot of players out.”
A True Test of Skill or Unfair Gauntlet?
Is Oakmont’s unforgiving setup a rightful examination of golf’s elite, or an excessive trial that punishes more than it sorts?
What do you think?