OAKMONT, PA — Colin Montgomerie, the eight-time European Tour Order of Merit winner, has labeled Oakmont Country Club as "brutal" ahead of the 2024 U.S. Open, recalling his heartbreaking playoff loss in 1994 to Ernie Els. The Scottish golf legend also weighed in on Robert MacIntyre’s chances as the sole Scottish participant in this year’s tournament.
Montgomerie, now a respected golf analyst, remains one of the most prominent figures in European golf history despite never winning a major. His near-miss at Oakmont in 1994, where he lost an 18-hole playoff to Els by four strokes, still lingers in his memory. "Oakmont is brutal—there’s no other way to describe it," he said.
The "Brutal" Challenge of Oakmont
Oakmont, known for its punishing rough, lightning-fast greens, and treacherous bunkers, has hosted more U.S. Opens (nine) than any other course. Montgomerie emphasized that the course’s difficulty lies in its relentless demand for precision. "If you’re even slightly off, Oakmont will expose you. It’s a mental and physical grind from the first tee to the 18th green."
The 1994 U.S. Open was particularly grueling, with only three players finishing under par after 72 holes. Montgomerie and Els tied at even-par 280 before the playoff. Reflecting on that week, Montgomerie noted, "I played some of my best golf, but Oakmont doesn’t reward good shots—it punishes mistakes."
Key Features That Make Oakmont So Tough
Montgomerie highlighted several aspects that make Oakmont a nightmare for even the world’s best players:
- "The greens are like putting on marble—they’re the fastest you’ll ever see."
- "The Church Pews bunker is a death trap. Once you’re in, you’re lucky to escape with a bogey."
- "The rough is so thick that missing the fairway by an inch is as bad as missing by 10 yards."
Robert MacIntyre’s Chances
This year, Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre will be the only Scottish player in the field. Montgomerie, who has mentored MacIntyre in recent years, believes the 27-year-old has the game to compete. "Bob’s got the temperament and the short game to handle Oakmont. He’s fearless, which you need to be here."
MacIntyre, a two-time DP World Tour winner, has shown flashes of brilliance in majors, including a T6 finish at the 2023 Open Championship. Montgomerie added, "If he can keep the ball in play and stay patient, he’ll surprise a few people."
What MacIntyre Needs to Do
Montgomerie outlined three keys for MacIntyre to succeed at Oakmont:
- "Avoid the rough at all costs—fairways are non-negotiable."
- "Lag putting is crucial. Three-putts will kill your score."
- "Stay mentally strong. Oakmont will test your patience like no other course."
Montgomerie’s Legacy at Oakmont
Despite the heartbreak of 1994, Montgomerie looks back at Oakmont with a mix of respect and frustration. "It’s the one that got away. I had my chances, but Oakmont doesn’t give you second chances."
He returned in 2007 for another U.S. Open but missed the cut, further cementing Oakmont’s reputation as his personal nemesis. "Some courses suit you, others don’t. Oakmont and I have a complicated relationship."
Conclusion: A Test of Golf’s Greatest
As the 2024 U.S. Open approaches, Montgomerie’s words serve as a warning to the field. "Oakmont doesn’t care about your reputation. It’s the ultimate equalizer."
For MacIntyre, the challenge is immense, but Montgomerie’s belief in him offers hope. "If anyone can handle it, it’s Bob. But Oakmont will decide—not the players."
