On the final day of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club, J.J. Spaun defied all odds to capture his first major championship. Despite a brutal start—five bogeys in the first six holes—Spaun mounted an extraordinary comeback. He hung tough through a 96-minute rain delay, then birdied the 17th and drained a stunning 64-foot putt on the 18th in wet conditions to seal a two-shot victory on Father’s Day.
A Chaotic Start on the Front Nine
Spaun began the final round tied for the lead at 3-under, but a disastrous front nine nearly cost him the tournament. Waterlogged fairways and slick greens plagued players, and Spaun was no exception. He struggled to adapt, hitting the flagstick, misreading putts, and ultimately posting a 40 on the front nine, a score no U.S. Open winner has overcome since 1913 .
The Weather Break: A Turning Point
Just as things seemed hopeless, heavy rain brought play to a near halt. The grounds crew battled to clear the greens and fairways while players retreated to shelters. Spaun later credited this rain delay as an emotional reset. Reflecting on the break, he said, “The weather delay just kind of changed the whole vibe for the day”.
Back Nine Brilliance: A Symphonic Finish
Once play resumed, Spaun rediscovered his rhythm. He nailed a clutch 40-foot birdie putt on the 12th, followed by another long-range birdie on the 14th. He then unleashed a long drive on the 17th that found the green, setting up yet another birdie.
Arriving at the 18th, Spaun needed pars to clinch a playoff—or better, birdies to win outright. His 64-foot birdie putt, the longest of the week, swished in through driving rain, sealing a 72 (even par) and a total of 279 (−1) for a decisive two-stroke win over Britain’s Robert MacIntyre.
The Emotional High
In the aftermath, Spaun embraced his caddie, sprinted through the tape, and received heartfelt celebrations from his family—including his two daughters, present as Father’s Day unfolded . He likened the moment to a Hollywood script, calling it “a dream” and “storybook, fairytale ending”.
The Underdog’s Journey
Spaun’s path to this landmark win is equally compelling. A former college walk-on at San Diego State, he nearly quit professional golf last year after struggling with health issues—including diabetes—and poor form that placed his tour status at risk. Inspired by the film Wimbledon, he reset his mindset, buoyed by improved play earlier this season and a runner-up finish at The Players Championship.
Historical Significance and Legacy
- Front nine adversity: Spaun’s recovery from a 40 on the first nine to win the U.S. Open echoes Francis Ouimet’s 1913 triumph, making him the first since then to achieve such a turnaround.
- Single player under par: He ended as the only player under par for the tournament at −1—a testament to his composure when others faltered.
- Rain-soaked heroics: Oakmont’s notoriously tough terrain was made harsher by rain. Spaun’s putts—particularly the 64-foot finish in wet weather—etched his name among U.S. Open lore alongside iconic moments.
- Underdog narrative: Spaun’s story—from near quitting to major champion—resonates with fans and critics alike. His triumph is celebrated as both a personal redemption and a testament to perseverance.
What Comes Next
- Spaun’s ranking jump: He is now firmly inside the world’s top 10, currently ranked No. 8, which brings enhanced status and sponsorship possibilities .
- Payoff and prize: His victory brings a $4.3 million winner’s prize and renewed career momentum.
- Looking ahead: Spaun’s next targets include the upcoming Open Championship and further establishing himself among golf’s elite.
Conclusion
J.J. Spaun’s U.S. Open victory at Oakmont is the embodiment of resilience, skill, and mental toughness. Overcoming a disastrous start and brutal weather to hole a 64-foot putt under immense pressure, he secured his place in major championship history. From the edge of quitting to the peak of success, Spaun’s journey is both inspiring and unforgettable—proof that in golf, as in life, perseverance can transform downfall into destiny.
