J.J. Spaun Sinks 64-Foot Birdie Putt to Claim U.S. Open in Rainy Thriller

Amid the downpour and muddied fairways of Oakmont, J.J. Spaun conjured moments of pure magic to clinch the U.S. Open on Sunday, earning his first major title in dramatic fashion.

The Californian, known for his sharp focus and firm play under pressure, delivered two unforgettable shots that sealed his victory. The first was a booming drive on the 314-yard 17th hole, landing it on the green to set up a birdie that put him in the lead. Then, needing to hold his nerve on the 18th green, Spaun lined up a daunting 65-foot putt, and rather than settle for par, he sank the impossible birdie.

His final round of 2-over 72 was just enough to secure a two-shot margin against Scotland's Robert MacIntyre. Nonetheless, Spaun was the only competitor to leave Oakmont under par, closing at 1-under 279 across the tournament.

The victory marked a remarkable milestone for the 36-year-old in just his second appearance at the U.S. Open, where the memory of rain and resilience will linger long. The torrential weather threatened to render the course unplayable, yet it provided Spaun with the break he needed. Starting the final round one shot behind, he initially faltered, bogeying five of the first six holes.

Then, as the heavens opened, play paused for an hour and 37 minutes. The break proved fortuitous for Spaun, who returned focused and undeterred, riding out the storm while many others floundered.

Just as Oakmont's challenge appeared insurmountable, Spaun's name was etched into golf history with strokes of brilliance, grit, and an unforgettable finish.