The 124th U.S. Open Championship is set to take place at Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina from June 13-16, marking the fourth time the famed Donald Ross course hosts the national championship (Golfdigest.com). The field of golfers includes both professionals and amateurs, with some earning exemptions based on their current world ranking or past performances (ESPN.com, USOpen.com). Here's a look at some key facts and information about the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2:
Key Facts:
- The U.S. Open is returning to Pinehurst No. 2 for the fourth time, with previous victories by Payne Stewart in 1999, Michael Campbell in 2005, and Martin Kaymer in 2014 (ESPN.com).
- The field of golfers includes contenders such as Scottie Scheffler (current world No. 1), Sergio Garcia (playing in his 25th consecutive U.S. Open with a best finish of third in 2005 and owning 36 professional victories including the Masters and Players Championship) (USOpen.com).
- Adam Scott earned a full exemption into the tournament after Grayson Murray was removed from the list, marking his 23rd consecutive U.S. Open appearance with a best finish of fourth in 2015 (USOpen.com).
- Robert MacIntyre earned an exemption based on his current Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and is playing in his third U.S. Open, having finished first-team All-American as a junior at Auburn University and reached the Round of 32 in last year's U.S. Amateur (USOpen.com).
- Otto Black earned a spot in the tournament as the second alternate from Springfield qualifier after firing a second-round 65 to gain entry into a playoff (USOpen.com).
- Hiroshi Tai gained a full exemption by winning the NCAA Division I Championship on May 27 (USOpen.com).
Background Information:
- Pinehurst No. 2 is located in the sandhills region of North Carolina and has been named site for several USGA championships, including the U.S. Open in 1999, 2005, 2014, and future years (ESPN.com).
- The course was designed by Donald Ross and opened in 1935 (Golfdigest.com).
- Payne Stewart won the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 in 1999, defeating Phil Mickelson by one stroke (ESPN.com).
- The USGA moved much of its headquarters to Pinehurst No. 2, including a new equipment-testing facility, museum and visitor center (ESPN.com).
Bias: It's important to note that the sources used in this article may have biases that could impact the story being told. For example, ESPN is known for its liberal bias and may present information in a way that favors certain viewpoints or individuals (MediaBiasFactCheck.com). It's crucial to consider multiple sources and perspectives when reporting on a story to ensure accuracy and completeness.