US Open: Jon Rahm Prepares For Challenging Conditions At Oakmont

Jon Rahm anticipates that Oakmont will present a genuine test of the U.S. Open's essence this week. Having claimed the title in 2021, Rahm has struggled in major tournaments since announcing his move to LIV Golf in December 2023. At his first major with LIV, he tied for 45th at the 2024 Masters, barely making the cut and showing little improvement in subsequent events.

Rahm is set to compete at Oakmont, where he first played a major in 2016, finishing T-23rd. He aims to join South Africans Ernie Els and Retief Goosen as one of the few non-US golfers to win multiple U.S. Opens over the past century. However, Rahm expects a tough challenge due to Oakmont's deep rough and fast greens.

Discussing his mindset, Rahm stated, "I mean, in theory, same as any other, but you're aware of what a golf tournament here is going to be like, it's going to be a challenge." He acknowledged the difficulty of hitting fairways and dealing with challenging lies and bunkers. "It's going to be a nice test, a difficult test," he added.

World number one Scottie Scheffler is among the favourites this weekend. Since early 2022, Scheffler has secured 16 PGA Tour victories. However, Bryson DeChambeau poses a significant threat as he seeks to become the fourth golfer since World War Two to win consecutive U.S. Opens.

Rahm speculates that an over-par score might secure victory at Oakmont. "It's just a tough course," he said. "It's so difficult that very few times anybody has won under par." He believes that if rain doesn't intervene, an over-par score could prevail again.

The mental aspect of the game will be crucial this week. "If there's any part of your game that will be tested on a week like this, it will be your mental game," Rahm noted. This sentiment underscores the demanding nature of playing at Oakmont.

Key Pairings Revealed

For the initial rounds of the U.S. Open, Rahm will play alongside former world number ones Dustin Johnson and Jordan Spieth. This grouping promises intense competition as these seasoned players navigate Oakmont's challenges together.

Rahm remains focused on overcoming Oakmont's obstacles while aiming for another U.S. Open victory. His experience and determination will be vital as he tackles one of golf's most formidable courses once more.