The anticipation for the 2025 US Open at Oakmont Country Club is reaching fever pitch as the USGA has officially released the Round 1 tee times for Thursday, June 12. Golf fans around the world can now plan their viewing schedules for what promises to be an exceptional day of major championship golf on one of America’s most challenging courses.
With a two-tee start format and some absolutely star-studded groupings, the opening round offers compelling storylines from sunrise to sunset. Let’s dive into the complete schedule and highlight the must-watch groups navigating Oakmont’s notorious challenges.
Featured groupings that demand your attention
Morning marquee pairings
The USGA has crafted some exceptional groupings for the morning wave. At 7:29 AM ET off the first tee, current Open Champion Xander Schauffele joins reigning US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau and US Amateur champion Jose Luis Ballester in what’s being called the “champions pairing.” This group represents a fascinating contrast in playing styles and personalities.
Just 11 minutes later at 7:40 AM ET from the 10th tee, European Ryder Cup stars Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, and Rory McIlroy begin their quest for the national championship. McIlroy’s history with the US Open makes this group particularly compelling as he seeks to end his decade-long major drought. You can Explore the 2025 US Open Final Qualifying breakdown to see how many players earned their spots alongside these established stars.
Afternoon blockbuster groups
The afternoon wave features even more star power. At 1:14 PM ET off the 10th tee, three US Open champions—Jordan Spieth, Jon Rahm, and Dustin Johnson—will draw massive galleries. All three players have dramatically different approaches to course management, making this a fascinating strategic showcase.
Perhaps the most anticipated grouping tees off at 1:25 PM ET from the first tee, with world #1 Scottie Scheffler joined by major champions Viktor Hovland and Collin Morikawa. This trio of young stars represents the modern elite of golf, combining raw power with precision iron play. Many experts Read our US Open Predictions for 2025 and see these players as the most likely to hoist the trophy on Sunday.
Complete Thursday tee times
Morning wave (first tee)
The first tee at Oakmont will see action beginning at 6:45 AM ET when Matt Vogt (a), Kevin Velo, and Trent Phillips strike the opening shots of the championship. Notable groups include:
- 7:18 AM: Harris English, Tommy Fleetwood, Keegan Bradley
- 7:29 AM: Xander Schauffele, Jose Luis Ballester (a), Bryson DeChambeau
- 7:40 AM: Matt Fitzpatrick, Wyndham Clark, Gary Woodland
- 7:51 AM: Akshay Bhatia, Matt McCarty, Robert MacIntyre
Morning wave (tenth tee)
Simultaneously, play begins on the 10th tee with Zac Blair, Scott Vincent, and Alistair Docherty at 6:45 AM ET. Key groupings include:
- 7:18 AM: Ludvig Åberg, Adam Scott, Hideki Matsuyama
- 7:40 AM: Shane Lowry, Justin Rose, Rory McIlroy
- 8:02 AM: Cameron Smith, Brian Harman, Phil Mickelson
The evolution of tournament scheduling has become increasingly sophisticated, with organizers carefully crafting groups to maximize viewer interest. Learn about the Strategic Evolution of Golf Tournaments to understand the considerations behind these pairings.
Broadcast information
How to watch Round 1 coverage
Television coverage for Thursday’s opening round will be split across multiple platforms. USA Network will carry the action from 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM ET, providing comprehensive coverage of most featured groups. The broadcast then shifts to Peacock streaming service from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET for the conclusion of the day’s play.
Digital streaming options
In addition to traditional broadcast coverage, the USGA will offer featured group streaming through their digital platforms, allowing fans to follow specific players throughout their complete rounds regardless of television coverage windows.
With Oakmont’s notorious difficulty and the stellar field assembled for the 2025 US Open, Thursday’s opening round promises drama, brilliance, and the inevitable frustrations that make our national championship so compelling. Whether you’re watching the morning wave or the afternoon groups, the stage is set for an unforgettable start to golf’s toughest major.
