Landing tricks may no longer be his goal, but J.J. Spaun's flair for mastering challenges remains unchanged. Once a skateboard enthusiast with dreams of professional riding, Spaun now grinds out victories on the golf course, exemplified by his remarkable performance at the U.S. Open.
On the demanding greens of Oakmont Country Club, Spaun was unfazed by the notoriously difficult conditions that rattled even the most seasoned players. Posting a 4-under 66, Spaun didn't just share the lowest first-round score in Oakmont's storied championship history; he also managed a rare and impressive bogey-free round.
“You want to say, like, thank you to everyone that’s telling you, good playing,” Spaun commented, “but you end up saying it 50 times in one hole.”
His stellar round was powered by deft putting and strategic play. Spaun needed just 26 putts and consistently delivered on the greens. While others faltered, Spaun’s approach was precise, gaining over a stroke both off the tee and with approaches. His flawless scrambling—six successful recoveries on six attempts—saved the day on multiple occasions.
Spaun’s up-and-down save at the par-5 fourth and a 17-foot par putt from a greenside bunker on the challenging sixth highlighted his skill under pressure.
Working with new short-game coach Josh Gregory undoubtedly contributed to Spaun's extraordinary performance. Gregory's insights helped Spaun hone his touch around Oakmont’s unforgiving roughs, sharpening his ability to judge and play various lies.
Just as significant as his technique adjustments were the mental shifts. Following a missed cut at the Memorial, Spaun resisted overhauling his swing, opting instead to focus on familiar, comfortable shots. Emphasizing a ‘through-side feel,’ he let rotation guide his swing—a strategy that paid off handsomely.
Spaun’s lead represents his best position after 18 holes in any major, eclipsing a T-16 at the 2022 Masters. With only five players breaking par during Thursday’s morning rounds, Spaun's achievement stands out against a backdrop of struggle for others, including distinguished competitors like Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy, who both found subpar scores elusive.
This breakout performance underscores a journey of growth for Spaun, who’s gone from hesitance to command in critical moments. Once too cautious to commit to daring feats on a skateboard, Spaun now embraces the challenge of leading on golf’s most storied stages.
