OAKMONT, Pa. — The much-anticipated rain arrived too late to assist the golfers during a challenging U.S. Open on Friday. While Sam Burns dazzled with a remarkable round, many players faced difficulties typical of this tough tournament.
At the end of the day, only three players managed to finish under par. With two rounds still ahead, Oakmont’s unforgiving layout turned promising scores into struggles, as rounds extended to nearly six hours.
After his impressive 5-under 65, Burns noted the demanding nature of each hole. “Every shot is difficult, and even when you find yourself in the rough, getting back on track takes great focus,” he said. “It can be mentally taxing.”
Other players didn’t quite find their rhythm. Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top golfer, fought just to post a 71, marking his sixth consecutive over-par round in a U.S. Open. Despite frustration over his performance, he remains optimistic, just seven shots behind and recognizing that anything can happen.
Rory McIlroy had an eventful round, showing visible frustration by throwing his club and smashing a tee marker. Despite making a birdie on his final hole, he opted not to discuss his performance.
Shane Lowry too had a rough day, inadvertently picking up his ball without marking it on the 14th green. This mistake cost him an additional stroke, showing how the mental side of golf can weigh heavily.
Physical challenges were evident, with Thriston Lawrence being the only player to initially reach 6-under par, only to suffer a series of bogeys thereafter. As the weather interrupted play, he prepped for an important putt that he would finish early Saturday.
The competition was fierce, with Phillip Barbaree Jr. among the 67 players to make the cut at 7-over par. Thomas Detry, once in contention, was sidelined by a string of double bogeys, recognizing that avoiding mistakes in the coming rounds is crucial for success.
Phil Mickelson, possibly playing in his last U.S. Open, struggled to stay above the cut line, finishing with a disappointing 74. This year’s cut was among the highest seen in recent tournaments.
Burns, who played earlier in the day, found success with a total score of 3-under 137, a score that others couldn’t match. He reflected positively on his performance, despite a rough finish in his previous round.
Viktor Hovland also showed promise, finding his way to even par overall and managing some impressive long putts. He shared his relief at being done with the day, acknowledging the exhaustion that came from such a demanding course.
Even champions like Brooks Koepka and Jon Rahm faced struggles, marking scores that left them with work to do in the upcoming rounds. Rahm expressed his frustration, highlighting how tough Oakmont can be.
As the tournament progresses, the mental and physical demands continue to be a theme, with players realizing that every stroke counts in pursuit of the prestigious championship.
