JJ Spaun Wins U.S. Open at Oakmont in Rain-Delayed Major Triumph

J.J. Spaun overcame a challenging start and brutal weather conditions to win the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont, becoming a major champion in only his second U.S. Open appearance. Despite beginning the final round four shots behind and enduring a rain delay, Spaun made a decisive birdie on the reachable 17th hole and sank a historic 65-foot putt on the 18th, finishing at 1-under 279 to become the only player under par in the tournament. Oakmont's notoriously difficult course and adverse weather caused many top contenders, including Sam Burns and Adam Scott, to falter, allowing Spaun to capitalize on the chaos. His victory marks a remarkable turnaround for the 36-year-old Californian, who was once considered a journeyman and had lost his PGA Tour status in 2021. Spaun's perseverance and clutch performance under pressure were widely praised, with commentators highlighting his resilience on a day when the course played like a '7,500-yard torture chamber.' This win solidifies Spaun's place among golf’s elite, joining legends like Ben Hogan and Jack Nicklaus as U.S. Open champions who finished birdie-birdie to close their victory.