The 2014 US Open, one of the PGA Tour's most coveted tournaments, is set to begin at Pinehurst No.2 in Pinehurst, North Carolina. But this year, things are a little bit different at the course that is known as the "St. Andrews of American Golf".
To start, Pinehurst No. 2 is tough, even by PGA Tour standards and even by US Open standards, with primarily tough and fast greens. Par seem like a good score this week to most players such as Canadian Graham DeLaet, who will be the sole representer of Canada this week in the tournament.
What's also unique about this course is that it features "natural" growth areas instead of rough on some holes, similar to what is found on links style courses or courses like TPC Scottsdale and Whistling Straits. These areas will make the consequences of bad shots even worse and put even more pressure on the players to perform at their best.
The weather will also be a factor this week, with the temperatures being in the high 80's to low 90's and a 40-50% chance of scattered thunderstorms for all four rounds. But to some, like American Phil Mickelson, this weathered is welcomed. Mickelson said in his press conference today that rain would be very helpful this week, primarily slowing down the greens and making them softer and more vulnerable.
And of course this isn't just your average PGA tour tournament, it's a major, so expect some nervousness and/or excitement from players. And like most majors, it's a tournament rooted in history, pride, and top level golf.
It looks like the US Open this year is bound to be full of excitement, drama, storylines, and good golf. Stay tuned for our picks on who we think is going to win it this year.
-Nick
Toronto Golf Reviews
Kevin Na's looking good so far!
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