JJ Spaun’s Miraculous Comeback Secures 2025 US Open Title at Oakmont
OAKMONT, Pennsylvania — In a final round that will be etched in golfing history, J.J. Spaun defied the odds to claim his first major championship at the 125th US Open at Oakmont Country Club on June 15, 2025. The 34-year-old American, who started the day one stroke behind 54-hole leader Sam Burns, overcame a disastrous front nine and a 90-minute rain delay to finish at one-under-par, the only player in the field to break par for the tournament. Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre finished two shots back at one-over-par, securing a commendable second place.
Spaun’s journey to the US Open title was nothing short of extraordinary. The final round began with promise but quickly unraveled as he carded five bogeys in his first six holes, dropping to five-over-par and seemingly out of contention. “I don’t think I kept my composure with all the bad breaks I was getting,” Spaun admitted during the trophy presentation. “I just tried to dig deep, hit some good shots.” A 90-minute weather delay due to torrential rain proved to be a turning point, allowing Spaun to regroup and refocus.
Emerging from the delay, Spaun mounted a stunning comeback. His back nine was a masterclass in resilience, as he posted a score of 32, including four birdies. The defining moments came on the 17th and 18th holes. A birdie on the 17th brought him to level par, and on the 18th, facing a 65-foot putt to avoid a potential playoff, Spaun drained a breathtaking birdie to seal the victory. The soaked crowd at Oakmont erupted in celebration as Spaun became the first player since Ernie Els in 2002 to card a 40 on any nine in a major and still win.
“I never thought I would be here holding this trophy,” an emotional Spaun said, reflecting on a career marked by perseverance. His win catapults him to No. 8 in the Official World Golf Rankings and bolsters his chances for a Ryder Cup debut. Spaun’s equipment, including a revolutionary LAB putter and a Titleist GT3 driver, also drew attention for its role in his triumph.
MacIntyre, who shot a final-round 68, set the clubhouse lead at one-over-par but could only watch as Spaun’s heroics unfolded. “I gave it everything,” MacIntyre said. “J.J. played some incredible golf down the stretch.” Viktor Hovland finished third at two-over-par, while Tyrrell Hatton and Scottie Scheffler tied for fourth and seventh, respectively.
The tournament, marred by brutal course conditions and a weather delay, drew 5.4 million viewers on NBC, down from 5.9 million for Bryson DeChambeau’s 2024 win. Despite the dip, viewership peaked at 9 million as Spaun closed out his victory.
Spaun’s win is a testament to his mental toughness and ability to seize the moment. Just months ago, he considered retiring from professional golf, but a renewed mindset and unwavering determination led to this career-defining moment. As he hoisted the trophy on Father’s Day, surrounded by his family, Spaun’s journey from journeyman to major champion resonated deeply with fans worldwide.
Sources: Yahoo Sports, Sky Sports, USA TODAY
