By:
Friday, June 6, 2025 | 5:36 PM
Changes at Oakmont for the 125th U.S. Open
The upcoming 125th U.S. Open, commencing June 12 at Oakmont Country Club, will present a transformed course compared to its last championship in 2016. The modifications will challenge some of the top golfers in the world.
The course has been lengthened to 7,372 yards, up from 7,219 yards in 2016, and maintains a par-70 setup in 2025. Oakmont’s original creators, H.C. Fownes and his son W.C., envisioned a tough golfing challenge when they established the course in 1904.
Major Upgrades and Restorations
Over the last 30 years, thousands of trees have been removed, followed by hiring golf course architect Gil Hanse, who undertook a comprehensive restoration. Hanse discovered that older photographs indicated the greens used to be larger, so he expanded them and added more pin positions.
Every hazard has been rebuilt, and nearly 200 bunkers were revamped along with improvements to the drainage systems within them, reviving the course’s original links-style design.
Strategic Enhancements
USGA’s senior director of championship agronomy, Darin Bevard, praised the revival of ditches along the fairways, which add strategic depth to the course. Players will face challenges should they find themselves in these ditches.
Bevard also highlighted the new hole locations, stating that these adjustments provide fresh challenges for modern players who can hit the golf ball exceedingly far. Masters champion Rory McIlroy experienced difficulties in a practice round, scoring a 79, but it’s expected that elite players will adapt swiftly to the course.
Course Readiness and Expectations
According to Oakmont head professional Devin Gee, the club is well-prepared. The rough has grown to 5 inches thick, presenting more challenges. Scott Langley, USGA’s senior director of player relations, emphasized that Oakmont remains one of the toughest courses, ensuring that it consistently delivers a high level of challenge.
Langley commended Hanse’s efforts in restoring Oakmont to its historical glory, reaffirming its status as one of America’s toughest golf courses.
Paul Schofield is a TribLive reporter focused on high school and college sports, along with local golf. He joined the Trib in 1995 after a lengthy tenure at the Daily Courier in Connellsville. He can be reached at [email protected].
