The U.S. Open is one of golf’s four major championships and has a history of providing dramatic and unforgettable moments. It’s known for its highly difficult coursesin particular. The U.S. Open has been the stage for both incredible triumphs and deafening defeats. This article aims to review some of the most iconic moments from the tournament.

Francis Ouimet’s Victory (1913)

Francis Ouimet’s win in the 1913 U.S. Open is often credited with making golf popular in the US. He was a 20-year-old amateur and a local caddie, yet wound up defeating the British legend Harry Vardon. His unlikely win was a true Cinderella story and inspired the famous movie, The Greatest Game Ever Played.

Ben Hogan’s Comeback (1950)

Ben Hogan’s win at the 1950 U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club is nothing short of miraculous. It was just 16 months after surviving a near-fatal car accident that left him with severe injuries. His 1-iron approach shot on the 72nd hole led to a par and playoff the next day, which he won.

Arnold Palmer’s Charge (1960)

Arnold Palmer’s win in the 1960 U.S. Open at Cherry Hills Country Club is remembered for his final-round charge. He started the final round seven strokes behind yet drove to green on the 1st hole, eventually moving on to shoot a 65. It was one of the best comebacks in U.S. Open history.

Jack Nicklaus’ First Professional Win (1962)

The 1962 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club was the setting for a historic battle between Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. Nicklaus defeated Palmer as a young rookie in an 18-hole playoff to secure his first pro win. This victory marked the beginning of Nicklaus’s legendary career and was the start of one of golf’s greatest rivalries.

Tom Watson’s Chip-In at Pebble Beach (1982)

Tom Watson’s chip-in on the 17th hole during the final round of the 1982 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach is one of the US Open’s most iconic moments. Tied for the lead with Jack Nicklaus, Watson made a seemingly impossible chip for birdie, which helped secure the win. This moment cemented Watson as one of the Golf’s greats.

Payne Stewart’s Winning Putt and Tribute (1999)

Payne Stewart’s 15-foot par putt on the final hole to win the 1999 U.S. Open is one of the most emotional moments in the tournament’s history. Stewart’s reaction, with his fist raised in triumph, became an iconic image. 

Tiger Woods’ Record-Breaking Win (2000)

Tiger Woods’ dominant performance in the 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach is regarded as one of the greatest displays in golf history. Woods won by 15 strokes, the largest victory margin in a major championship.

Phil Mickelson’s Near Misses

Phil Mickelson’s history at the U.S. Open is a tale of near misses and heartbreak. Despite being one of the most successful golfers in history, Phil has finished runner-up in the U.S. Open a record six times. His ongoing quest for the title would complete his career grand slam.

Rory McIlroy’s Record-Setting Victory (2011)

Rory McIlroy’s performance at the 2011 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club was a masterclass in precision and control. He set a tournament record of 16-under-par, winning by eight strokes and announcing himself as one of Golf’s brightest new stars. His win was a display of potential fulfilled and a promise of greatness to come.

Jordan Spieth’s Dramatic Win (2015)

Jordan Spieth’s victory in the 2015 U.S. Open at Chambers Bay was intense. Spieth won by one stroke in a thrilling finish where it could have gone between any of the four players in the last hour. It was truly a display of mental toughness.

Brooks Koepka’s Back-to-Back Titles (2017, 2018)

Brooks Koepka’s consecutive U.S. Open wins in 2017 and 2018 marked him as a force to be reckoned with. Koepka’s blend of power and precision enabled him to join a small company of golfers who have defended a U.S. Open title.

Bryson DeChambeau’s Scientific Approach (2020)

Bryson DeChambeau’s victory in the 2020 U.S. Open at Winged Foot was notable not just for the win itself, but for how he achieved it. DeChambeau, known for his scientific approach to the game, overpowered the course with his huge drives and short-game strategy. His win showed the evolving nature of golf and how innovation can redefine what’s possible.

Conclusion

The U.S. Open has long been a tournament where legends are made, and dreams are either realized or shattered. These moments show the drama, the passion, andunpredictability of golf. They remind us why the U.S. Open is a pinnacle of achievement in golf and a true test of excellence.