The end of the U.S. Open is drawing near, and it’s getting exciting! These four golfers are tied in an amazing race to win, each one bringing their own history, hope, and dream to the course. Among them are seasoned veteran Adam Scott, rising star J.J. Spaun, Los Angeles native Viktor Hovland, and the talented Sam Burns. With just one day remaining in play, it’s come down to this—the competition is at a premium and tension is high.
The Bachelor star AT 44-years-old, Adam Scott is one of the most established branches on professional golf’s family tree. It was here in 2010 that he won his one and only major title, with an unforgettable victory in a sudden death playoff at Augusta National. Since then he has found it hard to have a resounding influence on the big occasions. He hasn’t really contended seriously since 2019 and just one top-10 in the last six years. Scott’s performance on Saturday was a glimmer of hope as he shot a 3-under 67, placing him firmly in the mix for the title.
Looking back on his journey, Scott said he had always wanted to do one more big thing during his career.
“I’d be pretty proud of winning this thing on the weekend. Right now, that’s really what I’m here to do.” – Adam Scott
On the heels of his recent struggles, Scott is full of newfound confidence. I think I’ve been the only one who’s been able to see the signs of improvement in my game over the last month or six weeks. I really do feel more optimistic than I’ve felt thus far this year. It was hard to hear a man that has so much talent admit it’s been a while since he’s felt like a contender.
“I really haven’t been in this position for five or six years — or feeling like I’m that player.” – Adam Scott
A victory would certainly serve as an exclamation point on his résumé.
“But that’s what I’m always working towards. If I were to come away with it tomorrow, it would be a hell of a round of golf and an exclamation point on my résumé.” – Adam Scott
Scott also boasts a deep bench of seasoned experience. Photo courtesy PGA Tour. All the while, 34-year-old J.J. Spaun is still busy establishing himself on the PGA Tour. His last PGA Tour victory came three years ago at the Valero Texas Open. Spaun could have faltered under the intense pressure of going head-to-head in a Monday playoff with Rory McIlroy. During the tough questioning, he seemed to wilt.
Viktor Hovland is one of the new breed of golfers that have dethroned older players. The 26-year-old from Los Angeles has been nothing short of the model of consistency the last few years. Just two years ago, he rattled off top-20 finishes in each major, highlighted by a spectacular T-2 showing at the PGA Championship. This year has been a difficult one for him on many fronts. After firing a 70 on Saturday, he’s 1-under after three rounds, still searching for his best stuff.
Despite the loss, Hovland is still hopeful for his fate, and even vowed to fight for a victory.
“Sure, we would all like to win, that’s why we practice so hard.” – Viktor Hovland
Finally, Sam Burns rounds out the field of favorites. His great short game and especially his putting have been the signatures of his play. Apart from golfing prowess, Burns is perhaps best known for his close friendship with fellow golfer Scottie Scheffler.
As they get ready to tee it up in the U.S. Open’s final round, each golfer has their own set of expectations and obstacles to overcome. Scott is trying to find his way back among golf’s greats, and Spaun is hoping to survive the heat and make a name for himself. For Hovland, it’s about finding his rhythm once more and showing he’s ready to contend with the best. Burns would be hoping to ride his hot putting to a championship win.
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