Bryson DeChambeau Carries U.S. Open Hopes: Hopes His Weight in Clubs Doesn't Tip Scale
As the dawn breaks over Pinehurst Resort, golf fans and physics majors alike are keenly watching Bryson DeChambeau, who holds a three-shot lead heading into the final round of the 2024 U.S. Open (USA Today).
DeChambeau’s performance so far has been nothing short of impressive—or should we say dense? After all, he shot a 3-under-67 in the third round (New York Post). Aiming now for his second career U.S. Open title, having previously won in 2020 at Winged Foot, DeChambeau has shown he knows his way around both golf courses and the occasional physics lab (USA Today).
Hot on his spikeless heels, we have Patrick Cantlay, Rory McIlroy, and Matthieu Pavon, all tied for second place at 4-under (USA Today). Not to be left out, Ludvig Åberg, who was leading after the second round, dropped to a tie for fifth after a shaky 3-over-73 in the third round. Perhaps the weight of the lead proved too much compared to DeChambeau's comfortably heavy irons (USA Today).
Notably, Collin Morikawa had the best round of the third day with a 4-under-66, showing everyone that you don’t need bulk to make a strong impact on the leaderboard (USA Today). Meanwhile, poor Tony Finau had a triple bogey on the 13th hole during the third round, significantly affecting his standing. It’s safe to say that hole 13 was to Finau what kryptonite is to Superman (New York Post).
With the final round tee times starting at 7:30 a.m. Eastern, all eyes will be glued to the 2:21 p.m. pairing of DeChambeau and Pavon (USA Today). One can only hope the afternoon heat and Bryson’s extensive club collection don’t tip the balance of the universe (USA Today).
For those who can't make it down to Pinehurst, broadcast coverage of the 2024 U.S. Open will be available on NBC, USA, and streaming on Peacock. No smoke signals or carrier pigeons needed for updates here (USA Today).
As we move into the final round, it’s noteworthy that only eight golfers remain below par. This is a testament to either the brutal nature of the course or the players' collective will to keep things interesting (USA Today). The weather forecast predicts partly cloudy conditions with a high of 90 degrees Fahrenheit, suggesting that players will face both the heat of the competition and Mother Nature's personal sauna (USA Today).
Lastly, Ludvig Åberg and Hideki Matsuyama round out the group tied for fifth place at 2-under (USA Today). Perhaps they’ll find a way to break through, or maybe they'll just enjoy a nice walk ruined by the occasional birdie attempt.
As Bryson DeChambeau marches toward potential victory, fans and critics alike will be watching closely—some for the golf, others for the potential physics lesson. Either way, it’s going to be a final round worth its weight in drama, if not in clubs.