Hole 3
Accuracy off the tee is critical, with the famous Church Pew bunkers guarding the left and deep fairway traps on the right.
Finding the fairway is key to maximizing your chances of controlling the ball on the approach to an elevated green.
The green is relatively flat by Oakmont standards, but still demands precise distance and spin control.
Notoriously one of the most difficult par 4s in the country.
Hole 8
One of the longest par 3s in the world, par is an excellent score here.
Anything slightly left is likely to find the ‘Sahara bunker’, a sprawling 100 yard long hazard that punishes even the slightest miss.
The putting surface is not as heavily contoured as others at Oakmont, but birdie chances are rare given the hole’s length.
Famously, it was the only blemish on Johnny Miller’s card, making a bogey during his historic final-round 63 to win the 1973 U.S. Open.
Hole 17
The penultimate hole presents a crucial risk-reward challenge that could decide the championship on Sunday afternoon.
Most players will take driver off the tee, with multiple strategies to attack this birdie opportunity.
The most troublesome bunker is short, right of the green, named ‘Big Mouth’ for its ability to swallow approaches.
During the 2016 U.S. Open, the hole produced 129 birdies, though champion Dustin Johnson played it smart, making four pars on his way to victory
Hole 18
One of the toughest closing holes in golf.
A long, straight tee shot is a must, with trouble waiting on both sides of the fairway.
The uphill approach plays to a large, undulating green where even a safe shot can leave a difficult two-putt.
Dustin Johnson made birdie here in the final round of the 2016 U.S. Open to secure his first major victory.
Will Buttleman is VPAR’s Social Media and Events Manager.
A former professional cricketer, Will played for Essex County Cricket Club from 2018 to 2023 before joining the VPAR team in 2024. During his cricket career, he competed in First Class, List A, and T20 matches, contributing to the club’s recent successes.
Now, Will’s focus has shifted to golf. He plays off a VPAR Handicap of 4.5 and is aiming to reach scratch in the near future. His favourite course is Poppy Hills, a hidden gem just above Pebble Beach, and his top venue to work at is Waterville Golf Links in County Kerry, Ireland.
Whether you’re seeking top golfing destinations, a fresh perspective on the ever-changing professional game, or betting tips for major events, Will offers valuable insights. For him, golf is more than just a sport – it’s a lifestyle, and he loves sharing that passion with the VPAR community.
