Rory McIlroy faced a challenging battle at the 125th US Open held at Oakmont, managing to survive the treacherous course despite his own frustrations. Notable exits included defending champion Bryson DeChambeau and other high-profile golfers like Tommy Fleetwood and Dustin Johnson. The unpredictable nature of Oakmont was evident as Shane Lowry incurred a penalty for a forgetful mistake.

Despite a rocky start with double bogeys, McIlroy showcased resilience and finished strong with a birdie on the 18th hole. With only a few players under par, including leader Sam Burns, McIlroy remains hopeful for a shot at victory.

The grueling conditions at Oakmont tested even the best golfers, with players like DeChambeau struggling and others expressing frustration over the demanding course setup. Scottie Scheffler and Jon Rahm maintained a competitive spirit despite the challenges, emphasizing the mental fortitude required to navigate Oakmont’s pitfalls.

Amidst the chaos, Burns stood out with an impressive performance, securing the clubhouse lead with a remarkable 65. Viktor Hovland also demonstrated composure, positioning himself well at one under par. The resurgence of Brooks Koepka adds an intriguing element to the tournament, as the former major champion aims to reclaim his winning form.

As the US Open unfolds with unpredictable twists and turns, the resilience and mental strength of the players are put to the test, making it a compelling and essential event for golf fans.