Sam Burns will enter Sunday’s final round of the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club with a one-stroke lead, as he aims to capture his first career major championship in what promises to be a dramatic finish at one of golf’s most revered venues.
Burns, 28, showcased consistency and calm under pressure through the first three rounds, carding a 67-69-68 to finish Saturday at 4-under par. Close on his heels are J.J. Spaun and Adam Scott, both tied for second at 3-under, with a cluster of seasoned players within striking distance.
A Leaderboard Packed with Surprises
Despite a field featuring marquee names such as Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Jon Rahm, it is Burns, a Louisiana native with five PGA Tour titles to his name, who has emerged as the unexpected frontrunner. Known for his steady putting and mental resilience, Burns appears unfazed by Oakmont’s notorious difficulty and punishing roughs.
“I’ve tried to stay in the moment and trust my game,” Burns said following his round on Saturday. “Oakmont demands precision on every shot. You can’t get ahead of yourself.”
Burns’ game plan has involved playing conservatively on high-risk holes and capitalizing on birdie chances at the more forgiving par-5s.
Trailing closely, J.J. Spaun fired a bogey-free 67 on Saturday, rocketing up the leaderboard. The 33-year-old Californian is eyeing his first major title as well and spoke about staying grounded.
“I’m just going to stick to what got me here,” Spaun remarked. “Fairways and greens, and don’t get greedy.”
Adam Scott, the 2013 Masters champion, remains a model of consistency. The 44-year-old Australian has been a fixture on major leaderboards for over two decades and seeks his second career major.
Oakmont’s Infamous Challenge
The Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania is considered one of the toughest tests in golf. With lightning-fast greens, thick fescue, and narrow fairways, it forces players into a meticulous style of play. The U.S. Open, known for its grueling setups, has returned to Oakmont for the 10th time—more than any other course.
“You have to respect Oakmont,” Scott said. “It punishes over-aggression. You have to be smart and pick your spots.”
Weather conditions are expected to remain favorable for Sunday’s final round, though shifting winds may complicate club selection, particularly on holes 3, 12, and 17.
Americans Poised for Breakthrough
Should Burns or Spaun win, it would mark the fifth consecutive U.S. Open victory by an American player, reinforcing the recent domestic dominance in golf’s most prestigious events. The last four editions were won by Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm (Spain), Matt Fitzpatrick (England), and Wyndham Clark.
Among the contenders sitting just outside the top three are 2021 Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama at 2-under and two-time major winner Collin Morikawa at 1-under. Both players are known for strong finishes and may mount a late charge.
What’s at Stake
The U.S. Open purse this year totals $20 million, with the winner set to receive $3.6 million and a five-year exemption into all major championships. More importantly, the prestige of conquering Oakmont and earning the title of U.S. Open champion will forever define a player’s legacy.
For Burns, a win would not only elevate his standing in the sport but also fulfill years of potential that many insiders saw early in his PGA Tour career.
“I’ve always believed I could be here,” Burns said. “But now I have to go out and prove it.”
Final Round Outlook
With a stacked and unpredictable leaderboard, fans can expect high drama throughout Sunday’s action. Tee times for the final groups begin at 2:30 PM ET, with television coverage airing on NBC and Peacock.
Many eyes will be on the iconic 18th hole, a par-4 that has produced triumph and heartbreak in U.S. Open lore. A tightly packed leaderboard means a playoff remains a real possibility.
