U.S. Open marks historic 10th return to Oakmont

The modern greats of the game, many of whom are Rolex Testimonees, aim to etch their names into history at golf's most exacting stage

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When the U.S. Open tees off at the Oakmont Country Club on June 12 for its 125th edition, it will do so amid high anticipation and a field headlined by two names: world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and defending champion Bryson DeChambeau (see sidebar).

Both Rolex Testimonees arrive in Pennsylvania in strong form, with each American poised to contend on a course regarded as one of the most demanding in championship golf.

Scheffler, 28, enters the third men's major of the year following a season of remarkable consistency. In May, he captured his third career major at the PGA Championship with a commanding five-stroke victory, underlining his status as the pre-eminent force in the men's game.

Eager to claim the title that has eluded him after five attempts, the New Jersey-born golfer will hope to excel with a style built on precision iron play, deft short game control and steady temperament - attributes ideally suited for Oakmont's unforgiving setup.

The course - characterised by severely sloped greens, penal rough, deep bunkering and virtually no flat lies - has long tested even the most accomplished players.

DeChambeau, on the other hand, offers a more unconventional, yet equally compelling approach. Known for his analytical mindset and prodigious length off the tee, the Californian claimed his second U.S. Open title last year at Pinehurst No. 2. His first win was in 2020 at the Winged Foot Golf Club.

This season, the 31-year-old has carried that momentum into a runner-up finish at the PGA Championship, reaffirming his ability to contend in golf's most exacting environments.

Ahead of his title defence, he acknowledged the significance of the moment.