Clovis native Bryson DeChambeau secured a thrilling victory in the 124th U.S. Open by defeating Rory McIlroy by one stroke at Pinehurst No. 2.
This win marked DeChambeau’s second U.S. Open title, following his victory in 2020 at Winged Foot Golf Club during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Inside the closing round: DeChambeau displayed his emotions after sinking a par putt to seal the win, delighting the fans who had supported him throughout the tournament.
- Despite being in the final pairing with Matthieu Pavon, DeChambeau found himself trailing as McIlroy took the lead after birdies on Holes 10, 12, and 13.
- DeChambeau acknowledged the pressure to make a birdie on the 13th hole in order to stay in the competition, given McIlroy’s strong performance.
- McIlroy, who had been searching for a major tournament victory for a decade, struggled with his putter in the final holes, including missing two putts within five feet.
- The crowd witnessed McIlroy’s missed putt on the 18th green, which would have forced the first aggregate playoff in U.S. Open history.
- DeChambeau, having hit his tee shot into a difficult position, needed a par to secure the victory despite a challenging line of sight and a tree root near his ball.
- DeChambeau showcased his impressive scrambling ability by making solid contact with his pitching wedge and splashing a bunker shot to set up a short putt.
A shot that will go down in history. pic.twitter.com/58ztfiZ823— Fore Play (@ForePlayPod) June 16, 2024
- The victory was an emotional moment for DeChambeau, who released his pent-up emotions with a scream and cheers from the crowd upon securing his second career major championship.
The other side: In contrast, McIlroy was visibly dejected in the clubhouse after witnessing DeChambeau’s successful putt via a TV screen in the scorer’s room, realizing he had missed an opportunity to end his major drought.
- The PGA stalwart would leave the resort less than 10 minutes after DeChambeau secured his second trophy without having congratulated DeChambeau or speaking to the media.
Savoring the win: DeChambeau paid tribute to the late Payne Stewart throughout the tournament, wearing a Stewart pin on his hat to honor the golfing legend’s iconic celebration at Pinehurst No. 2 25 years ago.
- The course honored Stewart by displaying a special 18th hole flag with a silhouette of his fist pump and leg lift celebration.
- DeChambeau dedicated the win to both Stewart and his late father on Father’s Day, pointing to the heavens after securing the victory.
What he’s saying: DeChambeau called the bunker shot to set up his victory the “best shot of my life.”
- “I was just trying to land it pretty much where I landed it and run it out to the right,” DeChambeau said. “I remember Payne’s putt and how it broke up there, and I knew that was obviously huge to get up and down to win this prestigious championship that will be the highlight of my life. I still can’t believe it. It’s unbelievable.”
