The key problem with Xander Schauffele’s game which will probably stop him from winning the US Open has been identified

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Xander Schauffele was six shots behind J.J. Spaun on day one at the 2025 US Open after an opening round 72.

After a steady start at Oakmont Country Club, Schauffele made a double bogey on the seventh hole and struggled for the next two hours.

He was four over par with two holes to play before producing back-to-back birdies on 17 and 18 to keep his US Open hopes alive.

However, one former PGA Tour player thinks a key problem with his game will stop him from winning his third major championship this week.

• READ MORE: How to play at Oakmont Country Club, the US Open golf course Bryson DeChambeau says is the hardest he’s ever played

Smylie Kaufman shares key problem with Xander Schauffele’s game at US Open

Smylie Kaufman reflected on the opening day at the 2025 US Open on his popular podcast and discussed Schauffele’s chances to win.

Even though his consecutive birdies will give him confidence before round two, Kaufman does not believe the world number three can win the tournament.

He thinks Schauffele’s driving isn’t as accurate as it needs to be to avoid Oakmont’s penal bunkers and rough, and therefore, dropped shots.

“I just don’t think he’s quite driving it straight enough,” Kaufman explained. “I think he’s working on his way a little too much.

“But, to go from four to two over, you definitely go to bed feeling like you still have a chance.

“I think the winner has been within four shots of the lead after day one over the last five years. So, technically, he’s six back and wouldn’t fit that trend.”

Smylie Kaufman gives verdict on Brooks Koepka’s US Open chances

Kaufman also reflected on Brooks Koepka’s opening round at the US Open. He shot an unlikely two-under-par 68.

Everyone knows that Koepka is one of the best players in the world on his day, but those days have been few and far between recently.

Kaufman wants to see the LIV golfer produce another fine performance on Friday before he believes he can win his third US Open.

“I think if he had shot two-under three years ago, he would probably have been closer to [favorite],” he said.

“But I think [people] want to see whether he can keep it up. His game has been inconsistent at times, so I, for one, want to see what he’s going to do tomorrow.

“Can he follow up a really good round with another one on Friday?”