J.J. Spaun’s victory at the 2025 U.S. Open was nothing short of cinematic. In what’s already being called one of the most astonishing finishers in major history, the 34‑year‑old journeyman delivered a rollercoaster of a week that ended with a 65‑foot walk‑off birdie on the final hole, clinching a one‑stroke victory at Oakmont Country Club. He’s now the only player under par in a brutal setup that chewed up most of the world’s elite.
Spaun’s final round was an epic study in resilience. After bogeying five of the first six holes—a horror show that included a front‑nine 40—he found himself five strokes off the lead. But a torrential rain delay offered a mental reset. Post‑storm, he nailed five straight pars, then surged with birdies on the 12th, 14th, 17th and that miraculous 65‑foot putt on 18, which capped off his rally.
What’s remarkable is how Spaun defied Oakmont’s merciless challenge. The course punishes the slightest mistake, and as Peter Dawson put it, it “intimidates, bullies and bedevils” even the best. Despite rough weather and madness around him, Spaun drilled a bogey‑free 66 in Round 1 to lead the field. His putting performance was arguably the best of his career—he gained nearly four strokes with the flat‑stick in the first round alone .
This title is tinged with deep personal redemption. Last year, Spaun nearly walked away from golf. Contemplating quitting after health issues and poor form, he credits a viewing of the film Wimbledon with reigniting his competitive fire. Today, Spaun stands at world No. 8, headed to the Ryder Cup, and with the year’s most dramatic comeback to his name.
Runner‑up Robert MacIntyre matched Spaun shot for shot on the back nine, finishing at +1 and delivering a classy performance of his own. But Spaun’s final 65‑footer—across a soaked and slippery 18th green—was the stuff of legends: his longest make of the week, and arguably the most pressure‑packed putt of the tournament.
Oakmont dished out drama, agony, and redemption—it was the hardest US Open many can remember. But amid the carnage, Spaun carved out history: one under par, champion, survivor. A true underdog story made reality, and one that will echo through golf lore for years to come.
My Goat Sports 