The upcoming 2024 U.S. Open Championship is anticipated to be an enthralling event, with some of the most renowned golfers in the world preparing to compete at Pinehurst, North Carolina. Notable players to watch on the course include Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Tiger Woods, Brooks Koepka, and Wyndham Clark. With a rich history dating back to 1895, it is fascinating to delve into the stories of the youngest and oldest winners to ever claim the U.S. Open trophy.
The youngest winner of the U.S. Open golf championship is John McDermott, who achieved victory in 1911 at the age of 19 years, nine months, and 14 days. Remarkably, McDermott was also the first American-born champion of the tournament. Following closely is Francis Ouimet, who secured the title in 1913 at the age of 20 years, four months, and 12 days, after McDermott’s repeat win in 1912.
Conversely, the oldest winner of the U.S. Open golf championship to date is Hale Irwin, who triumphed in the 1990 tournament at 45 years and 15 days. Prior to Irwin, Raymond Floyd held the title as the oldest winner after his victory in the 1986 tournament at 43 years, nine months, and 11 days.
Looking towards the 2024 tournament, there is potential for new records to be set. Bryan Kim, at the age of 19, could become the youngest winner should he emerge victorious, having secured qualification after winning the 2023 U.S. Junior Amateur Championship. On the other hand, veteran Phil Mickelson, aged 54, stands the chance of breaking the record as the oldest winner. Despite never having won the tournament, Mickelson has finished in second place six times, with his most recent near-miss occurring in 2013.
In the history of the U.S. Open tournament, four esteemed golfers share the record for the most wins, each securing victory a remarkable four times. This distinguished group includes Willie Anderson from Scotland, who claimed the title in 1901, 1903, 1904, and 1905; Bobby Jones from the USA, with wins in 1923, 1926, 1929, and 1930; Ben Hogan, also from the USA, who emerged victorious in 1948, 1950, 1951, and 1953; and Jack Nicklaus, also from the USA, with wins in 1962, 1967, 1972, and 1980.
The U.S. Open Championship has a storied legacy that continues to captivate golf enthusiasts around the world. As the sport’s elite prepare to showcase their prowess at the upcoming tournament, the legacy of past champions will undoubtedly provide inspiration and motivation, as the quest for victory and historical significance converges once again on the hallowed course at Pinehurst, North Carolina.