US Open Leaders Struggle at Oakmont with McIlroy, DeChambeau Off Pace

Rory McIlroy struggled in the opening round of the US Open at Oakmont, finishing with a four-over-par 74 after a difficult back nine that included a double bogey on the eighth hole. Despite a promising start with birdies on the 11th and 12th holes, McIlroy's performance was hampered by the challenging course, which penalizes missed fairways heavily. First-round leader JJ Spaun posted a flawless 66, while notable players like Scottie Scheffler and defending champion Bryson DeChambeau also faced difficulties, with Scheffler scoring 73 and DeChambeau expressing frustration over his putting and the penal rough. DeChambeau acknowledged the course's toughness and his putting issues, which left him three over par, but remained optimistic about his chances. Other contenders such as Brooks Koepka and Jon Rahm managed under-par rounds, with Koepka making an eagle on the fourth hole. The US Open at Oakmont continues to challenge the field with its reputation as one of the toughest courses in golf.