The U.S. Open is one of golf’s most prestigious tournaments, showcasing some of the most remarkable moments and legendary players in the sport’s history. Set against the stunning backdrop of Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania, the tournament has seen a plethora of unforgettable performances. As we eagerly await the next U.S. Open in 2025, it’s worth exploring the rich history of this event at Oakmont, where nine championships have been held.
1927: Tommy Armour’s Unforgettable Win
The inaugural U.S. Open at Oakmont in 1927 set the stage for what was to come. Tommy Armour, with a final score of 301, needed a playoff to secure his victory over Harry Cooper. Notably, no player had broken the 300 barrier throughout the tournament—setting a standard that showcased the difficult playing conditions. Armour’s consistent rounds of 76 earned him a tense playoff victory, a testament to his skill and resolve.
1935: Sam Parks Jr.’s Tenacity
Fast forward to 1935, when Sam Parks Jr. emerged victorious with a score of 299, making him the only player to break the elusive 300 mark that year. In a test of skill and determination, Parks prepared meticulously for the tournament, practicing on the challenging Oakmont course nearly every day leading up to the event. The final round was incredibly competitive, with Parks claiming victory by two strokes over Jimmy Thomson amid tough scoring.
1953: Ben Hogan’s Dominance
The 1953 U.S. Open was a display of mastery from Ben Hogan. He finished the tournament at 283, outpacing Sam Snead by six strokes. Hogan’s opening round of 67 set the tone, and despite a brief surge from Snead, Hogan’s consistent play allowed him to maintain a secure lead. This victory marked Hogan’s fourth U.S. Open title and is remembered for his commanding performance.
1962: Rising Star Jack Nicklaus
At the 1962 U.S. Open, 22-year-old Jack Nicklaus made a significant mark by defeating the legendary Arnold Palmer. The tournament was notable not just for Nicklaus’s victory but also for the great rivalry it represented. Nicklaus, starting the final round two shots behind, managed to maintain composure in the face of Palmer’s prowess. He forced a playoff after closing with a 69 and won with a solid performance in the subsequent playoff—an event that heralded Nicklaus’s arrival on the major championship scene.
1973: Johnny Miller’s Historic Round
Johnny Miller delivered one of the most iconic moments in U.S. Open history during the 1973 championship. His final round score of 63 remains the best round ever played in a U.S. Open, propelling him from six shots back to a one-shot victory over John Schlee. Amid speculation about the course conditions, Miller’s excellence and determination under pressure are commemorated in golf lore.
1983: Larry Nelson’s Dramatic Comeback
The 1983 U.S. Open saw Larry Nelson stage a remarkable comeback. After opening rounds that left him seven shots behind, Nelson displayed skill and resilience, finishing with an extraordinary 67 on the final day. He edged out Tom Watson by a single stroke after a suspended final round due to thunderstorms. Nelson’s ability to capitalize on later rounds under pressure earned him the trophy and showcased the unpredictable nature of major golf tournaments.
1994: Ernie Els and the First Three-Man Playoff
In 1994, the U.S. Open hosted its first three-man playoff in over three decades. Ernie Els’s victory was not only thrilling but also emblematic of his rising status in the sport. The tournament itself was a nail-biter, with Els securing his win over Loren Roberts despite a shaky start. His determination to stay aggressive on the course ultimately led to his triumph, and this tournament signified a key moment in his career.
2007: Angel Cabrera Breaks Through
The 2007 U.S. Open was punctuated by Angel Cabrera’s victory, marking him as the first Argentine to win a major in four decades. Cabrera’s steady play amidst formidable competition, including Tiger Woods and Jim Furyk, showcased his resilience. With a score of 285, Cabrera captured the championship under intense pressure, proving his ability to perform when it matters most.
2016: Dustin Johnson’s Satisfying Redemption
Most recently, in 2016, Dustin Johnson claimed his first major title at Oakmont, concluding with a score of 276. His victory was not just a testament to his skills but also highlighted his mental fortitude as he faced uncertainty regarding a potential penalty during the final round. Johnson remained composed and persevered to secure his place in history with a three-shot lead, further demonstrating the challenges that Oakmont presents to even the best players on tour.
As we look forward to the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont, we carry with us the memories of these remarkable athletes and their historic accomplishments on this challenging course. Each tournament has contributed to the legacy of the U.S. Open, showcasing not only the physical demands of the sport but also the mental resilience required to succeed. Oakmont has been a stage for memorable moments in golf history, and it continues to beckon the sportsmen and women who wish to carve their names into the annals of the game.
