Thrilling Action Unfolds at Oakmont

The second round of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club delivered a spectacle of skill and resilience on June 13. Known for its punishing layout with narrow fairways, thick rough, and lightning-fast greens, Oakmont lived up to its reputation as one of the toughest tests in golf. Players battled through challenging conditions, with only a handful managing to finish under par after two days, as reported by NBC Sports.

Among the standout moments was Sam Burns' remarkable round of 65, a score that placed him among the leaders and showcased his precision on a course where mistakes are heavily penalized. Posts on X reflected the awe of fans and analysts alike, with many noting the 'carnage' caused by the 6-inch rough and greens running at over 15 on the stimpmeter. This brutal setup tested even the best in the field, making every shot a high-stakes endeavor.

Key Performances and Surprises

While top names like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Bryson DeChambeau drew significant attention heading into the tournament, it was the unexpected performances that stole much of the spotlight in the second round. Viktor Hovland, often critiqued for his short game, turned heads by flipping the script with exceptional chipping and putting, as highlighted in analysis shared on X by Justin Ray. Meanwhile, Adam Scott recorded a personal best at Oakmont, adding to the day's surprises.

The leaderboard remained tight, with just three players under par after 36 holes, per NBC Sports updates. The projected cut line hovered around +7, though it fluctuated as players completed their rounds under Oakmont's relentless pressure. The course itself became the main character, as ESPN noted, overshadowing even the biggest stars with its demanding design and unforgiving conditions.

Prize Money and Stakes Ahead

Beyond the competition, the stakes at the 2025 U.S. Open are monumental, with a record-breaking purse of $21.5 million on the line, according to GolfWeek. The winner is set to take home a staggering $4.3 million, a figure that drew comments from legends like Jack Nicklaus, who acknowledged paving the way for today's lucrative payouts, as reported by Golf Digest. The top four finishers are expected to earn over $1 million each, while the top 37 spots will pocket more than $100,000.

As the tournament progresses into the weekend, all eyes remain on Oakmont, a venue that continues to challenge and captivate. With such high financial rewards and the prestige of a major championship at stake, every swing carries immense weight. The second round has set the stage for an intense battle, promising more unforgettable moments in the days ahead.