Get ready for golf's toughest test! The 2024 US Open tees off this week, with a whopping INR 166 crore purse (approx.  20 million dollar) up for grabs. But beyond the big bucks, the US Open is a prestigious championship steeped in history.

 

 

US Open 2024 trophy at the greens of Pinehurst 

 

A Tournament Steeped in Tradition:

 

The US Open, one of golf's four major championships, dates back to 1895. It's known for its notoriously difficult courses, often exceeding 7,400 yards in length, and unforgiving conditions, demanding precision and mental fortitude from players. Winning the US Open is a crowning achievement for any golfer, with past champions including legends like Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tiger Woods.

 

The Putter Boy's Legacy:

 

 

The Statue Of Putter Boy greeting Players at Pinehurst No. 2

 

A charming tale about a young boy, often referred to as the "Golf Lad" or "Putter Boy," is woven into the fabric of Pinehurst No. 2. Legend has it that in the early 1900s, this "Lad" tirelessly retrieved balls from the course's punishing 2-acre waste bunkers, inspiring golf course architect Donald Ross. Ross, known for his strategic designs, is believed to have incorporated the "Lad's" experience into the course layout. The result? Pinehurst No. 2's signature elevated greens, a testament to both strategic brilliance and a tribute to the "Lad's" contribution to the course's rich history. Sculptor Lucy Richards immortalized the "Lad" in 1912 with a now-iconic 9-inch bronze statuette – the Putter Boy. Originally a sundial, the Putter Boy now stands as a cherished symbol of Pinehurst and a reminder of its enduring golfing legacy.

 

Why Pinehurst? A Perfect Match:

 

 

An Overhead View of 478 yards, Par-4, 11th hole at Pinehurst 

 

Pinehurst boasts a rich golfing heritage. It hosted a record four previous US Opens (1999, 2005, 2014, and now 2024), and its demanding layout, with its strategically placed 100+ sand traps and undulating greens with an average slope of 13.8 degrees, perfectly embodies the spirit of the championship. Pinehurst No. 2 offers a unique blend of challenge and shot-making opportunities, ensuring a captivating display of golfing mastery.

 

The Course with a Bite:

 

Pinehurst No. 2 isn't just about history; it's been modernized for an even more thrilling competition. Course architects have incorporated the latest in greenkeeping technology, including sub-air systems and computer-controlled irrigation, ensuring pristine conditions that will push even the best players to their limits.

 

Who's Who and Who to Watch:

 

 

Defending Champion Whyndham Clark arrives at Pinehurst to return US Open Trophy

 

The field at the 2024 US Open is stacked with star power. Defending champion Wyndham Clark (27 years old, 4 career victories) will be looking to repeat his magic, while World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler (29 years old, 9 career victories, including the 2024 PGA Championship) aims to add another major title to his collection. Golfing legends like Tiger Woods (48 years old, 15 major championships) and Rory McIlroy (34 years old, 4 major championships) are always crowd favorites, and young guns like Akshay Bhatia (24 years old, 2 career victories) and Sahith Theegala (23 years old, 1 career victory) are hungry to make their mark.

 

Key Players and their Strategies:

 

Wyndham Clark: Can the surprise champion from 2023 recapture the lightning in a bottle? Will he stick to his conservative approach, or will he need to take more risks at Pinehurst?

 

 

World No 1, Scottie Scheffler at Pinhurst No 2 Golf Course, try his best shot at Pinehurst No 2

 

Scottie Scheffler: Will his aggressive style translate to success on Pinehurst's demanding layout? Can he avoid costly mistakes and capitalize on birdie opportunities?

 

 

Rory McIlroy: Always a threat at the majors, McIlroy will be looking to finally break through and claim his elusive US Open title. Can he overcome his past struggles at Pinehurst?

 

 

Three Times US Open Champion , Tiger Woods taking shot at the practice session on Pinehurst Golf Courses

 

Tiger Woods: Will the "Tiger Slam" dream resurface at Pinehurst? Keep an eye on his practice sessions for clues about his strategy. Will he focus on accuracy off the tee or prioritize scrambling around the greens?

 

Keen eyes of Indian Audience on:

 

 

Golfer having roots with India

Akshay Bhatia: This Indian-American golfer recently punched his ticket to the US Open with a dramatic birdie on the final hole of the qualifiers. Akshay Bhatia's aggressive style and powerful swing could be a weapon at Pinehurst. He recently posted, "Rolling into the weekend at the US Open. #Testaccepted #Pinehurst." Interviews reveal Bhatia's excitement for the challenge and his confidence that his game is suited for Pinehurst's demanding layout.

 

Sahith Theegala: Joining the ranks of young guns eager to make their mark on the US Open stage is 23-year-old Indian golfer Sahith Theegala. Theegala secured his spot in the 2024 US Open with a clutch performanceTheegala's impressive showing on the Korn Ferry Tour this season has generated a lot of buzz. Though this is Theegala's US Open debut, his experience this season will undoubtedly be valuable as he battles it out with the sport's biggest names.

 

 

Aron Rai: Adding to the international flavor of the 2024 US Open is English golfer Aaron Rai. Rai, known for his two gloves and aggressive play, secured his spot at Pinehurst through a dramatic qualifying performance (details of qualifier to be confirmed). His recent form on the PGA Tour and European Tour, including a tie for fourth at the CJ Cup and a top-10 finish at the Houston Open, suggests he's in peak form. Rai's exceptional driving accuracy and ball-striking could be an advantage at Pinehurst No. 2, and fans will be eager to see if he can translate his recent success onto the US Open stage.

 

Who Will Rise to the Challenge?

 

Predicting the US Open champion is difficult. But one thing's for sure: the next four days will be a rollercoaster ride of birdies, bogeys, and high drama. Expect clutch putts, strategic brilliance, and maybe even a few meltdowns under the pressure.
So, who will conquer "The Test" and walk away with a INR 166 crore payday? Tune in to 4moles.com and find out!

 

 

Read more:

 

 

 

  AFTSC, Gurgaon : Installed Tee-Time Inventory Management system for their members

 

 

 

 From Tees to Table: The Unexpected Connection Between Golf & Wine

 

 

 

  PGA Championship Showdown: Xander Tops, Bryson and Victor Follow Closely

 

 

 

   When to get your GOLF SET FITTED?

 

 

 

   Alumni Tee-Off: THE ALMA MATER CUP 2024