It’s not how you start, but how you finish for J.J. Spaun in an incredible comeback at the U.S. Open.

The 34-year-old American bogeyed five of the first six holes to open his final round at Oakmont, but birdied four of the final nine to win his first major championship on Sunday. 

He made a long, electrifying birdie on 18 to seal the win at 1-under.

<button class="button button--modal-trigger" aria-label="Open the image in a modal." data-modal-image="36250984"> 
</button>
<figcaption>J.J. Spaun after putting in for birdie on the 17th hole during the final round of the U.S. Open golf tournament at Oakmont Country Club Sunday, June 15, 2025 <span class="credit">AP</span></figcaption>

He’s never had a top-20 finish at a major before this and his last win in any event came three years ago.

Spaun took the lead with a birdie on No. 17 with Robert MacIntyre already in the clubhouse at 1-over. 

His auspicious start included an approach shot that hit the flag stick on the second hole, only to see it roll off the green, which led to a bogey.

It’s not how you start, but how you finish for him in an incredible comeback at the U.S. Open.{ai:summary}<p>J.J. Spaun staged a remarkable comeback at the U.S. Open, overcoming a rocky start that saw him bogey five of the first six holes. He rallied with four birdies on the final nine holes, finishing at 1-under to secure his first major championship.</p><p>This victory marks a significant achievement for the 34-year-old, who had never previously finished in the top 20 at a major and hadn't won an event in three years. Spaun took the lead with a crucial birdie on No. 17. #sports</p>

J.J. Spaun completes unreal comeback to win first US Open championship

Loading...