Pinehurst No.2’s reputation as one of America’s toughest tests was cemented this week during Bryson DeChambeau’s remarkable victory.
The big-hitting LIV Golf star managed to stave off the advances of Rory McIlroy during the final holes on Sunday, producing an all-time great bunker shot on the 18th.
Throughout the week, Pinehurst’s sloped greens and run-off areas tested the world’s best in less than traditional US Open set-up.
After the relatively kind LACC conditions in 2023, a stern test was required – and that’s precisely what the golfing world got.
However, golf fans are in agreement over the best US Open venue, and it’s not Pinehurst.
Golf fans say whether Pinehurst is the best US Open course
A post from Luke Elvy on X has sparked much debate. He wrote: “Is Pinehurst No.2 the best US Open course? I think so…”
Michael Campbell, who won at Pinehurst in 2005, replied: “Definitely my favourite for obvious reasons.”
However, the vast majority of fans suggested Oakmont in Pennsylvania is still the best venue for the year’s most challenging major.
One fan wrote: “No, Pinehurst is awesome, but Oakmont will always be the best.”
Another added: “Oakmont is still #1 in my book.” While this fan said: “It’s Oakmont. Pinehurst is great, but it’s Oakmont.”
One fan did suggest Pinehurst is in the top three: “It’s top 3. Oakmont, Pinehurst, Pebble Beach.”
Some were even less than complimentary about Pinehurst’s ranking in US Open courses.
Another added: “No. The greens are too severe. Many excellent approach shots have been repelled by the dome-shaped greens in large part because they are playing way faster than they were intended to. Well-executed approach shots should be rewarded, not penalized.”
Oakmont test set to return in 2025
Those who love the US Open being held at Oakmont won’t have to wait long until the year’s toughest major returns to the historic venue.
The 2025 edition will be held at the Pennsylvania venue for the first time since Dustin Johnson’s victory in 2016.
Before Johnson’s win, Angel Cabrera was triumphant at Oakmont back in 2007.
The US Open will undoubtedly return to a more traditional set-up next year with thick rough and sloped fairways set to challenge the world’s best players.
With the winning score in 2016 coming in at four under and Cabrera landing the title on a score of five over, another stern test is set to emerge in a year’s time.
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