Matt Fitzpatrick executed an exceptional bunker shot on the final hole during the 2022 US Open, seizing his first major title by a single stroke.
A year ago, in the midst of the upheaval following the inception of the LIV tour, Matt Fitzpatrick emerged victorious at a riveting US Open venue, thereby claiming his first major championship.
Notably, the youthful Englishman’s victory took place in Brookline’s classic setting, a location he had been eyeing for a triumphant return since his 2013 US Amateur win at the same Boston course. The event unfolded like a thrilling Hollywood movie script.
Fitzpatrick’s audacious nine-iron swing from a fairway bunker on the final hole put him ahead of a robust group of competitors, including reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler and previous US Open winners Jon Rahm and Rory McIlroy.
The championship climaxed dramatically, its four-day run pushing the breakout of the sport’s internal feud into the background and showcasing the best aspects of golf.
This week, fans are looking forward to a similar event, despite the sport’s ongoing chaos following last week’s surprising announcement of a business merger between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, backers of LIV.
Undeniably, the days leading up to Thursday’s start will be filled with discussions about the consequences of this extraordinary deal. However, once the inaugural tee shot is taken, focus will shift solely to the game.
What better place for a captivating narrative than the glamorous city of Los Angeles itself?
For the first time, the US Open will be held at the prestigious Los Angeles Country Club (LACC), a course situated near Beverly Hills that was once known for its exclusivity. However, after renovations led by prominent designer Gil Hanse and architect Geoff Shackelford, LACC is now ready to open its doors to the golf world.
In the past, the course has hosted a Pac-12 college event won by PGA star Max Homa, and a victorious US team at the Walker Cup. This week, it serves as the venue for its first major championship, presenting an undulating 7,423 yard par-70 course that is sure to challenge even the best.
It has been 75 years since the US Open was held in Los Angeles, with Ben Hogan being the last winner. This part of the world is known for its big names and star-making potential, making it a fitting stage for the US Open.
Despite the current discord at the top of men’s professional golf, the hope is that this US Open will provide a respite from the division.
Since Fitzpatrick’s breakthrough win, subsequent majors have been claimed by world-class players such as Cameron Smith (The Open), Jon Rahm (the Masters), and Brooks Koepka (the US PGA Championship). With this trend, it’s expected that a player of similar caliber will emerge victorious this week.
Rahm, in particular, is a specialist in California. He won his 2021 US Open title at Torrey Pines in nearby San Diego, making it one of his five victories in the Golden State.
Notably, it’s not just the big names that are expected to do well. Players like Viktor Hovland and Patrick Cantlay also show promise, with Cantlay’s consistent performance making him a contender for his first major win.
In the past seven years, six of the US Open winners have been first-time major champions. This week, players will be looking to continue this trend, battling it out in Los Angeles for the lead role and a chance at glory.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about US Open Golf Championship
Who won the 2022 US Open?
Matt Fitzpatrick won the 2022 US Open, claiming his first major title with a sensational bunker shot on the final hole.
Where is the 2023 US Open being held?
The 2023 US Open is being held at the Los Angeles Country Club (LACC), marking the first time the prestigious tournament is staged at this location.
What significant change occurred in golf just before the 2023 US Open?
Just before the 2023 US Open, there was a shock announcement of a commercial merger between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and the backers of LIV, the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund.
Who are some notable players participating in the 2023 US Open?
Notable players participating in the 2023 US Open include former US Open winners Jon Rahm, Rory McIlroy, Bryson DeChambeau, Dustin Johnson, and Martin Kaymer, as well as reigning Masters champion Scottie Scheffler.
Which player is specifically mentioned as a California specialist?
Jon Rahm is mentioned as a California specialist. His 2021 US Open title was achieved at Torrey Pines in San Diego, one of his five victories in the Golden State.
When was the last time Los Angeles hosted the US Open before 2023?
Before 2023, the last time Los Angeles hosted the US Open was 75 years ago when Ben Hogan emerged as the winner.
More about US Open Golf Championship
- US Open Official Website
- PGA Tour Official Website
- Los Angeles Country Club
- Biography of Jon Rahm
- Biography of Rory McIlroy
- Biography of Matt Fitzpatrick
5 comments
Wow, what a write-up! so excited to see the open in LA this time round, its been ages. Fitzpatrick’s win last year was epic, looking forward to more of that.
can’t wait for the game to start already! Too much talk bout this merger and stuff, lets get back to golf!
not so sure about the LACC being ready for this kinda spotlight, just hoping the players won’t be too thrown off with all the glamour and glitz around…
lets go rahm! cali specialist! Bet hes going to tear up the LACC. He’s been in the form of his life.
great read! love the build up to the majors. And who knows, we might see another first time winner this year, just like Fitzpatrick last year!