Tony Finau's U.S. Open Rollercoaster: From Wild Shots to Leaderboard Shifts
The 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club has been a challenging test for all competitors, and Tony Finau's experience has been a prime example of the tournament's unpredictable nature. From errant shots to leaderboard fluctuations, Finau's journey has been anything but smooth.
Finau's Third Round Struggles
After a solid second round where he maintained even par, Finau faced difficulties in the third round, shooting a +4. This performance placed him at +10 overall, dropping him to a tie for 49th place. While he recorded birdies on holes 10 and 13, six bogeys, five on the front nine, hindered his progress.
Despite Finau's struggles, Saturday proved challenging for most golfers, with only a handful finishing under par. Oakmont's demanding layout and challenging pin placements contributed to the higher scores across the board.
A Shot Heard 'Round the Grandstand
Finau's opening round also featured a memorable moment on the 18th hole. After a wayward approach shot, his ball struck a sprinkler head and ricocheted into the grandstand, nearly hitting a sleeping fan. This bizarre incident highlighted the unpredictable nature of golf and the potential for unexpected interactions with the environment.
The Cut Line and Tournament Leaders
The projected cut line for the U.S. Open was set at +7, determining which 60 players (and ties) would advance to the weekend rounds. Sam Burns emerged as the leader after the second round, showcasing exceptional performance on the challenging course. Other contenders like J.J. Spaun and Viktor Hovland also positioned themselves near the top of the leaderboard.
As the final round approaches, Tony Finau will aim to improve his position and finish the tournament on a high note. The U.S. Open at Oakmont continues to provide drama and excitement, testing the skills and mental fortitude of the world's best golfers.