Empire State Review Contributor 
In a stunning display of resilience and determination, J.J. Spaun clinched his first major championship at the 125th U.S. Open held at Oakmont Country Club on June 16, 2025. The 34-year-old American secured the title with a remarkable 64-foot birdie putt on the final hole, finishing at one-under-par 279, two strokes ahead of Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre.
Spaun’s victory is particularly noteworthy given his challenging start in the final round, where he bogeyed five of the first six holes, recording a front-nine score of 40. A 96-minute weather delay due to lightning and heavy rain provided a much-needed respite, allowing Spaun to regroup. He returned to the course revitalized, carding birdies on the 12th, 14th, 17th, and the decisive 18th hole.
This triumph marks a significant milestone in Spaun’s career. Prior to this, his best finish in a major was 23rd place, and he had missed the cut in his only previous U.S. Open appearance in 2021. The win propels him to No. 8 in the Official World Golf Rankings, a remarkable ascent from his position at No. 109 at the start of the season.
Robert MacIntyre, who finished second with a final-round 68, demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship. Upon witnessing Spaun’s winning putt, MacIntyre applauded and acknowledged the moment with a gracious “fair play,” earning widespread praise for his conduct.
The tournament was characterized by its challenging conditions, with Oakmont’s notoriously difficult layout and inclement weather testing the mettle of the world’s best golfers. Many top contenders, including Sam Burns and Rory McIlroy, struggled to navigate the course, highlighting the significance of Spaun’s achievement.
Spaun’s journey to this victory has been marked by perseverance. Just a year prior, he contemplated retiring from professional golf due to health issues and poor performance. A renewed mindset and dedication to the sport have culminated in this career-defining moment.
With this win, Spaun not only secures a $4.3 million prize from the U.S. Open’s $21.5 million purse but also cements his status as a formidable competitor on the PGA Tour. His performance at Oakmont stands as a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of competition.
