J.J. Spaun Wins First Major 2025 U.S. Open Oakmont

J.J. Spaun won his first major championship at the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont, overcoming long odds and harsh course conditions to secure a dramatic victory. His caddie, Mark Carens, credited his late father for providing a pivotal 'good read' during the tournament, which helped Spaun become the only player under par in the event. After Spaun's final putt, an important tradition where the winning caddie takes home the 18th green flag was nearly missed, but Phil Mickelson's former caddie, Jim 'Bones' Mackay, stepped in to retrieve the flag and later gave it to Carens in a gesture of sportsmanship. Spaun dedicated his win to his late friend Andy Wood, who passed away three months earlier, and celebrated the victory with his family. The win marked only Spaun's second PGA Tour title, following his runner-up finish to Rory McIlroy at The Players Championship earlier that year. The heartfelt victory and the camaraderie among caddies highlighted the emotional and communal aspects of the sport.