The U.S. Open at Oakmont is living up to its fearsome reputation, delivering a stern test to the world’s best golfers. As we head into Friday’s crucial second round, the leaderboard is tightly packed with both established stars and surprising challengers positioning themselves for a weekend charge.
With treacherous bunkers, lightning-fast greens, and the looming threat of afternoon thunderstorms, Friday promises to separate the contenders from the pretenders. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the second round.
The latest from the leaderboard
J.J. Spaun has surprised many by seizing the overnight lead with a masterful 4-under 66. The 32-year-old navigated Oakmont’s challenges with remarkable precision, but he’ll need to maintain that form as several major champions lurk within striking distance.
Sam Burns and Thriston Lawrence share second place at 3-under, while Viktor Hovland and Si Woo Kim sit just two shots off the lead. Notable contenders including Adam Scott, Brooks Koepka, and Brian Harman remain well-positioned to make a move in round two.
This leaderboard features an intriguing mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, setting the stage for what could be a Friday filled with dramatic swings. With Oakmont’s notorious difficulty, even the smallest mistakes can prove costly.
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Friday’s tee times and pairings
The USGA has crafted several compelling groupings for Friday’s second round. Early risers will want to catch the 7:18 AM ET group featuring Justin Thomas, Brooks Koepka, and Min Woo Lee teeing off the 10th hole.
Perhaps the day’s most anticipated pairing comes at 7:40 AM ET when world number one Scottie Scheffler joins Viktor Hovland and Collin Morikawa from the 10th tee. The afternoon wave brings equal star power with Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry, and Justin Rose starting at 1:25 PM ET from the first tee.
Phil Mickelson’s pursuit of the career Grand Slam continues at 1:47 PM ET when he’ll play alongside defending champion Brian Harman and Cameron Smith. These carefully orchestrated groupings ensure compelling viewing throughout the day.
How to watch the U.S. Open
Golf fans have multiple viewing options for Friday’s second-round coverage. NBC will broadcast the heart of the action from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM ET, capturing the drama as the cut line comes into focus.
Early coverage begins on Peacock at 6:30 AM ET, continuing until NBC takes over at 1:00 PM. Peacock returns for the final hour from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM ET. Digital platforms offer additional viewing opportunities, with featured group coverage available on Peacock, USOpen.com, and the USGA App throughout the day.
This comprehensive coverage ensures you won’t miss a moment of the action as players battle one of golf’s most demanding tests.
Weather at Oakmont
Weather could play a significant role in Friday’s proceedings. The forecast calls for warm, humid conditions with temperatures reaching 81°F. Of particular concern is a nearly 50% chance of afternoon thunderstorms, which could disrupt play and potentially create varying conditions for morning and afternoon waves.
Wind will be relatively moderate, blowing from the south at approximately 7 mph. While not extreme, even light breezes can affect shots on Oakmont’s exposed layout and lightning-quick greens.
Players will need to monitor changing conditions carefully, as adapting to weather shifts could be crucial to success in this second round.
As Friday unfolds at the historic Oakmont Country Club, we’ll see which players rise to the occasion and which succumb to the immense pressure of America’s national championship. The U.S. Open consistently identifies not just skilled golfers, but those with the mental fortitude to overcome golf’s toughest examination.
