Scottie Scheffler Faces Unexpected Threats at Oakmont
As anticipation builds for the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont, Scottie Scheffler remains the favorite despite an injury-hampered season. After a slow start due to a wrist injury, the world No.1 bounced back with three wins—including a major—rekindling fans’ hopes for another title. But veteran Billy Horschel isn’t convinced the road will be easy.
Horschel’s Bold Predictions from the Sidelines
Currently sidelined with a hip injury, Horschel won’t tee it up this week, but he’s keeping a close watch. In a recent PGA Tour Originals appearance, the 8-time tour winner picked three unexpected names as potential threats: Keegan Bradley, Corey Conners, and Tommy Fleetwood.
Underrated Contenders With Major Intentions
“These guys are ball-striking machines,” said Horschel, pointing to their consistency off the tee and strong 2025 campaigns. Fleetwood, ranked 13th in the world, has played 12 events this season with a 70.08 scoring average and a 63.92% drive accuracy. Conners boasts five top-10 finishes, while Bradley has four and is a former major winner (2011 PGA Championship).
Why Horschel Is Missing the U.S. Open
The seasoned pro revealed that hip pain, which plagued him for months, led to a precautionary surgery earlier this year. Though disappointed to miss Oakmont and a possible Ryder Cup debut, Horschel is prioritizing recovery. “This is a preventive measure,” he posted on X, “but I’m already focused on rehab and aiming for a late summer return.”
Looking Ahead
As the U.S. Open tees off, all eyes may be on Scheffler, but Horschel’s warning is clear: don’t sleep on the dark horses. Could 2025 be the year Tommy Fleetwood finally breaks his major drought? Time will tell.