Top 5 Lowest Scores in US Open History: A Testament to Golfing Greatness
Rory McIlroy (2011)
At just 21 years old, Rory McIlroy delivered one of the most dominant performances in US Open history. Playing at the Congressional Country Club in 2011, McIlroy displayed remarkable control over his long game and touch around the greens. He fired rounds of 65, 66, 68, and 69 for a total of 268, finishing 16-under-par — the lowest 72-hole score in US Open history. His clinical approach and fearless shot-making not only earned him his first major title but also made him a global golf sensation. Fellow major champion Padraig Harrington later admitted that McIlroy’s performance had a deep personal impact, stating, “Rory broke me in 2011.”
Wyndham Clark (2023)
Wyndham Clark stunned the golfing world with a stunning run at the 2023 US Open, securing the second-lowest total in the event’s history. Scoring a 270 (-10), Clark navigated pressure-filled moments with calm precision, especially during a nerve-wracking final stretch. One of the highlights was his delicate chip at the 17th hole, followed by two composed putts from 60 feet to hold par. With emotions overflowing, Clark described his win as a long-time dream come true. Despite having limited success in previous majors, this victory brought him both validation and a life-changing reward, including a $3.6 million prize.
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Martin Kaymer (2014)
Martin Kaymer’s win at Pinehurst in 2014 was both surprising and historic. Shooting back-to-back rounds of 65 to open the tournament, he set new benchmarks with the lowest 36-hole score and the largest halfway lead in US Open history. Holding steady through the weekend with scores that maintained his lead, Kaymer ultimately finished at 271, nine under par. His masterclass in course management and consistency resulted in an eight-shot victory. Reflecting on the win, Kaymer credited his early advantage as the key to handling the challenging final rounds.
Gary Woodland (2019)
Gary Woodland claimed his first major title in style at Pebble Beach during the 2019 US Open. His final score of 271 (68-65-69-69) tied for the fourth-lowest in the tournament’s history. Holding off high-caliber competitors like Brooks Koepka and Justin Rose, Woodland delivered several memorable shots — including a bold 3-wood at the 15th hole, a crucial chip on the 17th, and a pressure-packed putt on 18 to seal the win. His composure and thoughtful play throughout the tournament earned him the championship and a place in US Open history.
Jack Nicklaus (1980)
The 1980 US Open marked a thrilling comeback for Jack Nicklaus. After a period of struggle with his game, Nicklaus returned to top form at Baltusrol, finishing with a score of 275 to win his fourth US Open title. His legendary final-round shot — a 1-iron from 237 yards to within 22 feet on the 18th hole — remains one of the most iconic moments in major championship history. That birdie capped a brilliant performance and secured Nicklaus’s place among the game’s all-time greats with one of the tournament’s five lowest winning scores.
As today’s golfers prepare to tackle the challenges at Oakmont, fans can only wonder — will anyone rise to the occasion and break these legendary records?