Bryson DeChambeau secures second US Open title by a single stroke, while Rory McIlroy’s decade-long major drought continues.
Bryson DeChambeau emerged victorious in a nail-biting US Open finish at Pinehurst No 2, clinching his second title by a single stroke over Rory McIlroy. The 30-year-old American, part of the controversial LIV Golf series, overcame a dramatic final round to etch his name once more into golf history.
DeChambeau entered the final day with a three-shot lead but found himself trailing by two strokes on the back nine. In a contest that tested both skill and psychological resilience, DeChambeau’s fortitude shone through. McIlroy, on the other hand, was haunted by missed opportunities, including crucial putts on the 16th and 18th holes that could have altered the outcome.
The climactic moment arrived on the 18th hole. After a series of nerve-wracking shots, DeChambeau made a stunning save from the bunker, leaving himself a four-foot putt for the title. As McIlroy watched in despair, DeChambeau sank the putt, securing a one-over 71 to finish six-under for the tournament.
With this victory, DeChambeau joins an elite group of players to have won the US Open more than once before turning 31, a list that includes legends such as Jack Nicklaus, Ernie Els, Tiger Woods, and Brooks Koepka. Reflecting on his triumph, DeChambeau remarked, “I still can’t believe that up-and-down. Probably the best shot of my life.”
For McIlroy, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. Despite showing flashes of brilliance and holding the lead at several points during the final round, his putting ultimately let him down. Missing a 26-inch putt on the 72nd hole was the final blow in a series of near-misses that have characterized his recent major appearances.
McIlroy, who has not won a major since the 2014 PGA Championship, left Pinehurst immediately after DeChambeau’s victory. His composed but despondent demeanor underscored the heartbreak of coming so close yet again.
The duel between DeChambeau and McIlroy captivated the golfing world, especially with the backdrop of Pinehurst’s notoriously challenging course. The tension was palpable as the two titans of golf battled not only each other but also the punishing conditions. The final round saw several contenders fall away, leaving the stage set for a dramatic two-way contest.
Early on, McIlroy made a statement with a birdie on the first hole, quickly closing the gap on DeChambeau. The American, known for his aggressive “bomb-and-gouge” strategy, showed a more patient side to his game, which paid dividends as he navigated the treacherous course.
The tide of the match ebbed and flowed with each hole. McIlroy’s birdie on the 10th brought him level with DeChambeau, igniting the crowd. Yet, DeChambeau’s response on the same hole, sinking a crucial putt after a masterful pitch, showcased his resilience.
McIlroy’s brief surge to an eight-under lead was countered by DeChambeau’s birdie on the 13th. The real turning point came on the 16th, where McIlroy’s miss from 19 inches cost him dearly, and DeChambeau’s steady play kept him in contention.
DeChambeau’s victory extends a remarkable run for American golfers, who have now claimed the last six majors. His share of the $21.5 million prize fund, a record for a major tournament, cements his status as one of the game’s top earners and competitors.
For McIlroy, the quest for a fifth major continues. His recent form suggests that victory is within reach, but Sunday’s missed putts will linger in the memory. As McIlroy himself said after last year’s close call, “When I do finally win this next major, it’s going to be really, really sweet. I would go through 100 Sundays like this to get my hands on another major championship.” That wait, however, continues for now.
In the end, Pinehurst No 2 witnessed not just a golf match but a testament to the sport’s drama and unpredictability, leaving fans and players alike to ponder what might have been and what lies ahead.
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