Bryson DeChambeau carved his name in U.S. Open history once more, winning the renowned championship by a nail-biting one-shot margin over Rory McIlroy. The final round at Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina was a riveting match between the two powerful golfers, with both players displaying flashes of brilliance until DeChambeau emerged victorious.
DeChambeau, a LIV Golf Series staple, started the day atop the scoreboard, three shots ahead of the pursuing pack, which included McIlroy. However, the Northern Irishman made a stunning return, passing DeChambeau with some vintage golf. McIlroy’s precision and putting abilities were on full show, and with five holes remaining, he led by two shots. McIlroy’s hopes flared brightly as he approached the end of his decade-long wait for a fifth major win.
However, the drama escalated on the back nine when McIlroy’s fortunes changed. A heartbreaking missed par putt of 30 inches on the 16th hole cost him his lead and matched him with DeChambeau. McIlroy’s championship hopes were dashed when he missed the final hole from an even shorter distance.
Meanwhile, DeChambeau remained composed in the face of his own obstacles. A errant tee shot on the 18th put the ball into the rough, but he kept his cool. DeChambeau handled the challenging position with a superb approach shot that put him within four feet of the cup. This clutch shot provided a stark contrast to McIlroy’s troubles, putting the American on the verge of victory.
McIlroy watched anxiously from a nearby screen as DeChambeau calmly sunk the winning putt, causing a surge of celebration. His final round score of one-over 71 was enough to secure the title with a six-under total, one stroke better than McIlroy’s brave but ultimately unsuccessful attempt.
DeChambeau’s victory is his second in the United States Open, following his win in 2020. Despite the current controversy surrounding his involvement in the LIV Golf Series, this victory reinforces his status as a major golf force. The series, a breakaway circuit sponsored by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has sparked a major schism in the professional golfing world. While DeChambeau’s victory lends prestige to the LIV Golf Series, it also reignites debate over the future of professional golf and the significance of major tournaments such as the US Open Series. The series, a breakaway circuit sponsored by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has sparked a major schism in the professional golfing world.
McIlroy is bitterly disappointed after his setback. The 35-year-old has now placed second in four majors since winning the PGA Championship in 2014. While his performance throughout the tournament demonstrated his incredible talent, the missed putts on the final stretch will definitely leave an impression.
The 2024 US Open will be remembered for its dramatic ending and the conflicting feelings it elicited. DeChambeau’s victory adds to his growing legacy, while McIlroy’s close call continues his wait for a major trophy. The LIV Golf Series’ impact continues to ripple throughout the sport, providing another dimension of intrigue to this already intriguing competition.
