By T. Jayani, JadeTimes News
DeChambeau Triumphs at US Open as McIlroy Falters in Final Stages
US Open Final Leaderboard
6 DeChambeau (US)
5McIlroy (NI)
4Cantlay, Finau (US)
3Pavon (Fra)
2 Matsuyama (Jap)
1Schauffele, Henley (US)
Selected others
+1Aberg (Swe)
+2Morikawa (US)
+3Fleetwood (Eng)
+4 Rai (Eng)
+6Hatton (Eng)
+8Scheffler (US), McKibbin (NI)
McIlroy Misses Major Win as DeChambeau Secures US Open
Rory McIlroy missed a critical chance to end a decade long major title drought, bogeying three of his last four holes, which allowed Bryson DeChambeau to capture the US Open. McIlroy, who had turned a three shot deficit into a two shot lead with five holes remaining, saw his chances crumble with missed par putts on the 16th and 18th holes.
DeChambeau displayed resilience, especially on the final hole, where he salvaged par from a bunker 50 yards from the pin, dubbing it "the shot of my life." This clutch performance earned him his second major championship, his first being in 2020. "It was monumental to secure this championship with that up and down. This will be a highlight of my career," DeChambeau remarked.
This marks the fourth instance of McIlroy finishing second in a major since his last victory at the 2014 US PGA Championship. The final round at Pinehurst’s Number Two course was intense, with McIlroy initially displaying a stellar performance by overcoming DeChambeau with impressive birdie putts. However, his putting faltered disastrously at the critical moments.
DeChambeau’s drive on the 18th found trouble off the tee and landed in a bunker after his second shot. Yet, he executed a superb recovery to clinch the title, while McIlroy, dejected, quickly left the course without speaking to the media.
DeChambeau Delivers Under Pressure
DeChambeau's victory at Winged Foot in 2020 was characterized by his physical transformation and powerful driving. Four years later, he returned to the US Open as a more balanced golfer, combining power with finesse. His steady performance throughout the tournament, with three under par rounds, positioned him well despite the challenges of the final day.
Though leading by three shots entering the final round, DeChambeau faced a stern test as McIlroy surged ahead. Despite errant drives and a challenging layout, DeChambeau maintained composure, securing his victory in a thrilling conclusion.
"Facing off against a great like Rory was special. I didn't wish for him to miss, but I'm grateful things worked out in my favor," said DeChambeau. His perseverance was evident as he navigated the difficult final holes, responding to McIlroy's charge with strategic play and crucial putts, culminating in a dramatic win.
McIlroy's Heartbreaking Finish
McIlroy started the final round strongly, thrilling the crowd with birdies and taking the lead with a magnificent 27 foot putt on the 13th hole. Yet, as the round progressed, his previously reliable putting let him down. Missed short putts on the 16th and 18th holes were costly, allowing DeChambeau to capitalize and win. Despite consistent top 10 finishes in recent US Opens, McIlroy’s major drought continues. His next opportunity will be at The Open in Troon, Scotland, in five weeks.
Pinehurst's Tough Challenge
Pinehurst Number Two lived up to its reputation as a demanding course, with only eight players finishing under par. Patrick Cantlay and Tony Finau both played solidly but couldn't challenge for the lead. Sweden's Ludvig Aberg, after a strong start, struggled with a triple bogey and finished one over par.
England’s Tommy Fleetwood posted a respectable final round, while compatriot Tyrrell Hatton and world number one Scottie Scheffler faced disappointing finishes, ending the tournament well over par. DeChambeau’s victory at Pinehurst underscores his evolution as a golfer and his ability to perform under pressure, solidifying his place among golf’s elite.