U.S. Open: Bryson DeChambeau Wins U.S. Open After Battle Against Rory McIlroy
Bryson DeChambeau has won the U.S. Open title after a final-round battle against Rory McIlroy at Pinehurst in North Carolina.
DeChambeau emerged victorious by one shot after McIlroy faltered with bogeys on three of his last four holes, including a crucial miss from inside four feet at the 18th.
DeChambeau's steady play, highlighted by a brilliant up-and-down to save par on the final hole, secured his win with a one-over 71 in the final round, finishing with a total score of six-under 274.
DeChambeau, who was runner-up at the PGA Championship last month, expressed his relief and joy after the win. “"I was a little lucky. Rory didn't make a couple putts that he could have coming in. I had an amazing up-and-down on the last. I don't know what else to say. It's a dream come true."
His victory marks his second career major win, following his 2020 U.S. Open triumph.
McIlroy leaves course without speaking to media after loss
McIlroy, despite a strong start that saw him take the lead with five holes to play, ended up in second place with a final round of 69. Americans Patrick Cantlay and Tony Finau tied for third.
McIlroy's missed putts on the 16th and 18th holes ultimately cost him the championship, leaving him dejected and quickly leaving the course without speaking to the media.
DeChambeau acknowledged the high stakes and the intensity of the competition. "Ultimately on 13, I knew I had to make birdie there to give myself a chance because Rory was going on a heater," he said. He credited his clutch performance on the final hole as pivotal to his victory.
"That bunker shot was the shot of my life," DeChambeau reflected. "I knew where Rory was. After my tee shot, I was up there going, 'Man, if he makes par, I don't know how I'm going to beat him'. I just really didn't know. Then I heard the moans. It was like a shot of adrenaline got in me."
The U.S. Open showcased a rare moment of unity for fans amid the sport's division between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf. DeChambeau, a prominent LIV Golf player, hopes his win can help bridge this divide. "I hope this can bridge the gap between a divided game," he said. "All I want to do is entertain and do my best for the game of golf."
What's next for DeChambeau and McIlroy?
Looking ahead, DeChambeau's performance solidifies his status as a formidable competitor in major championships as he heads toward the final men’s major of the year, The Open at Royal Troon in July. He is currently one of the pre-tournament favourites for the competition.
Meanwhile, McIlroy will aim to bounce back at the Travelers Championship later this week.
