JJ Spaun Leads US Open Oakmont As McIlroy, Scheffler Struggle

At the 2025 US Open held at Oakmont Country Club, JJ Spaun took an early lead with a bogey-free, four-under-par 66, equaling the lowest opening round at Oakmont and showcasing exceptional putting and scrambling skills. Rory McIlroy, the Masters champion, struggled to maintain his momentum from previous wins, finishing the first round at four-over-par 74, eight shots behind Spaun, hindered by Oakmont's punishing rough and his inconsistent driving accuracy. World number one Scottie Scheffler, also a pre-tournament favorite, posted a 73 with six bogeys, describing the course as very challenging and acknowledging the need to capitalize on more scoring opportunities. Other notable players included Brooks Koepka, who shot two-under with an eagle and birdies, and Thriston Lawrence, who was just one shot behind Spaun. The course lived up to its reputation as one of the toughest in golf, with only a few players finishing under par in the morning wave, and the conditions expected to become even more difficult as the tournament progresses. Defending champion Bryson DeChambeau and other top contenders also faced difficulties, highlighting Oakmont's demanding nature in testing every aspect of players' games.