BBC SPORT — The 2025 US Open is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions of golf's toughest major, with a star-studded field, a historic venue, and plenty of storylines to follow. Here's everything you need to know about the tournament, including dates, tee times, favourites, and the full schedule.
US Open 2025: Key Dates and Venue
The 125th US Open will take place from June 12-15, 2025, at the iconic Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania. This marks the 10th time Oakmont has hosted the championship, cementing its reputation as one of the most challenging tests in golf.
Oakmont last hosted the US Open in 2016, when Dustin Johnson claimed his first major title. Known for its treacherous greens and punishing rough, the course is expected to play even tougher in 2025, with the USGA likely to set up the layout to challenge the modern game's power hitters.
Tee Times and Broadcast Schedule
Exact tee times will be announced closer to the event, but players will tee off in morning and afternoon waves on Thursday and Friday. Weekend pairings will be determined by the 36-hole cut. Coverage will be extensive, with NBC and USA Network handling US broadcasts, while BBC Sport will provide live coverage in the UK.
Key broadcast windows (all times ET):
- Thursday & Friday: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM (USA Network), 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (NBC)
- Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (Golf Channel), 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (NBC)
Favourites to Win the 2025 US Open
The field will feature the world's best golfers, but a few stand out as early favourites:
- Scottie Scheffler: The world No. 1 has been dominant in 2024 and will look to add a second US Open to his résumé.
- Rory McIlroy: A four-time major winner, McIlroy is overdue for another US Open victory after last winning in 2011.
- Jon Rahm: The 2021 champion thrives on tough courses and could be a force at Oakmont.
- Viktor Hovland: The Norwegian has been knocking on the door of a major breakthrough.
Dark horses include Ludvig Åberg, the rising Swedish star, and Wyndham Clark, the 2023 champion who has proven he can handle US Open pressure.
Course Setup and Challenges
Oakmont is notorious for its difficulty, with narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and lightning-fast greens. USGA Chief Championships Officer John Bodenhamer recently stated: "Oakmont will be set up to reward precision over power. Players who can control their ball flight and navigate the greens will have the best chance."
Key features to watch:
- The Church Pews bunker: A sprawling hazard between the 3rd and 4th fairways.
- The 288-yard par-3 8th hole: One of the toughest short holes in golf.
- The 667-yard par-5 12th: A true three-shot hole for most players.
Notable Absences and Comebacks
Tiger Woods, now 49, has not confirmed his participation but has hinted at a possible return if his body allows. Meanwhile, Phil Mickelson, who has finished runner-up in the US Open a record six times, is expected to compete in what could be his final appearance.
Defending champion Bryson DeChambeau will be back, hoping to replicate his 2024 victory. However, Brooks Koepka, a two-time winner, may miss out due to injury concerns.
Conclusion: What to Expect
The 2025 US Open at Oakmont promises drama, high stakes, and a true test of golfing skill. As Jack Nicklaus once said: "Oakmont is the hardest course in America, maybe the world. If you win there, you’ve earned it." With a stacked field and brutal conditions, this year’s champion will certainly have to earn their place in history.
Stay tuned to BBC Sport for live updates, expert analysis, and behind-the-scenes coverage throughout the tournament.
