The US Open at Pinehurst No. 2 has presented a significant challenge for several high-profile golfers, with the demanding and swift course taking a toll on their performance. Reigning US Open champion, Justin Thomas, former major champions Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, as well as Viktor Hovland, have all found themselves in danger of failing to make the cut after disappointing first rounds.
Phil Mickelson, a six-time major winner, is positioned near the bottom of the leaderboard following a nine-over first round, which included a challenging start with four consecutive bogeys. Close behind is Viktor Hovland, who struggled to an eight-over round with six bogeys and two double bogeys. Tiger Woods concluded the day at four-over, two shots off the projected cut line, after enduring a trying round with six bogeys and two birdies. Meanwhile, Justin Thomas found himself at seven-over par after five bogeys on the back nine.
Conversely, there are still some players with an opportunity to rise and secure their position on Friday. Notable names in the four-over crowd include Shane Lowry, Keegan Bradley, and Dustin Johnson, with Tiger Woods being the most prominent figure among them. Similarly, major winner Justin Rose and reigning US Open champion Wyndham Clark are just one shot behind the projected cut.
Wyndham Clark, who managed to remain within striking distance of the cut line at three-over, expressed his apprehension about the incredibly swift greens and challenging conditions that the players are confronting at Pinehurst No. 2. He emphasized the borderline nature of the greens, suggesting that they could become even firmer and quicker.
Despite the challenges faced by some players, others have demonstrated commendable performance in the demanding conditions. Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama and three-time major champion Jordan Spieth are currently positioned at two-over, while Patrick Cantlay and Rory McIlroy lead the pack at five-under par.
As the tournament progresses, it remains to be seen which players will be able to rebound from their challenging starts and secure their places in the later rounds. The US Open at Pinehurst No. 2 continues to serve as a test of skill and resilience for the world’s top golfers.