“US Open Unveiled: A Guide to Witnessing the First Golf Major since the Unexpected PGA Tour Shift”

US Open Preview: Los Angeles Country Club Hosts Historic Tournament

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Tournament of Firsts

The 123rd US Open, set to begin on Thursday, brings with it two significant firsts. For the first time in its 126-year history, the iconic Los Angeles Country Club in California will host a major championship. This historic moment is not the only highlight of the event, as it is also the first major tournament since the partnership between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and LIV Golf was announced. This partnership has sparked controversy and left players with unanswered questions.

World No. 2 Jon Rahm expressed the “betrayal” felt by PGA Tour players and the lack of clarity surrounding the deal. However, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan, one of the architects of the partnership, was not available on-site as he recovers from a medical situation.

Title Defense and Back-to-Back Victories

While the drama surrounding the partnership continues, the US Open provides an opportunity for the sport of golf to take center stage. Matt Fitzpatrick, the defending champion, aims to become the first player since Brooks Koepka in 2018 to defend the US Open trophy. Fitzpatrick clinched his first major title in thrilling fashion last year, edging out Scottie Scheffler and Will Zalatoris by a single stroke.

On the other hand, Koepka is chasing his own back-to-back victory. He recently won the PGA Championship and is aiming for a sixth major championship. Koepka’s win at the PGA Championship marked a comeback after a series of injuries and a loss of form. The victory holds a special place for him, as he overcame significant challenges to claim the trophy.

A Strong Field of Competitors

The US Open will feature a strong field of competitors, including world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Masters champion Jon Rahm, and four-time major champion Rory McIlroy. However, the absence of three-time US Open champion Tiger Woods, as he continues to recover from ankle surgery, will be felt.

How to Watch

Viewers in the US can watch the opening rounds of the US Open on Peacock, USA Network, and NBC. The closing rounds will be broadcast on NBC, with streaming options available on the US Open website. UK viewers can follow the action on Sky Sports Golf.

Fitzpatrick’s Title Defense

Matt Fitzpatrick, last year’s champion, enters the tournament with confidence after his breakthrough victory. Winning the US Open last year boosted Fitzpatrick’s belief in his ability to compete at the highest level. He now approaches tournaments with the mindset that he can win, thanks to the experience gained from his major triumph.

Koepka’s Pursuit of Double Digit Majors

Brooks Koepka is determined to add to his five major championships and reach double digits in his career. He aspires to join the ranks of golf legends Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Walter Hagen, who have all won 10 or more major titles. Koepka, at 33 years old, sees himself having ample time to achieve this goal, assuming he stays healthy and continues his focused preparation for major tournaments.

Conclusion

The 123rd US Open at Los Angeles Country Club marks a historic moment for the iconic course, serving as the first major championship it has ever hosted. The tournament is also significant due to the recent partnership between golfing tours, which has generated controversy among players. As the competition begins, all eyes will be on defending champion Matt Fitzpatrick and his bid for another title, while Brooks Koepka seeks to add to his major collection and make history. The US Open promises to showcase the best talent in the sport and provide thrilling moments for golf enthusiasts worldwide.