Dustin Johnson Returns to 2016 US Open Oakmont Venue Ahead of 2025 Major

As the 2025 US Open returns to Oakmont Country Club, players are bracing for one of golf’s most challenging tests, with many noting the course is even harder than during its last hosting in 2016. Dustin Johnson, winner of the 2016 US Open at Oakmont, described the course as 'probably the hardest' he has played, emphasizing that even recent rain, which softened the fairways and greens, hasn't made it much easier due to the added length and punishing rough. Michael Kim, preparing for his first round, echoed the challenge of the thick rough and the importance of driving accuracy, noting the greens are fast but manageable. Both Johnson and Justin Thomas highlighted that missing the fairway at Oakmont leads to tough recovery shots, regardless of the softer conditions from recent weather. Johnson's recent struggles in majors and on the LIV Golf circuit contrast with his confidence from past success at Oakmont, while Kim withdrew from the RBC Canadian Open to rest for this major test. Ultimately, players believe success at Oakmont will depend on precision off the tee and adaptation to the course’s evolving conditions throughout the tournament.