2023 US Open - Preview

Previewing the 2023 US Open at LA Country Club

Get ready, golf fans! Another major championship is just around the corner, and this time it's the prestigious US Open. The US Open holds a special place in the hearts of golf enthusiasts, and the 2023 edition promises to be an unforgettable event. Let's take a closer look at what we can expect from the tournament at LA Country Club.

 

LA Country Club - A Historic Venue

LA Country Club is a complete stranger to hosting top-tier golf tournaments, however for a reason that may surprise! This decision has been a choice from the club itself, choosing to knock back (multiple) requests to host major championship golf in the past, instead choosing to remain a hidden treasure within Los Angeles.

The club itself has historically kept itself far from the headlines (no mean feat given its location), and has done so by keeping those who brush with Hollywood far from its gates. Whilst there has been a number of stars attempt to join throughout the years, it has knocked back each and every one of them - maybe most notably - Hugh Hefner, who’s notorious ‘playboy’ mansion shared a border with the North course.

Given this, LACC is now set to welcome the world's best players for the US Open. With its pristine fairways, challenging bunkers, and undulating greens, LA Country Club promises to test the skills and mettle of the players.

 

A BIG Fortnight in Golf

With news of Saudi investment into the PGA Tour rocking the golf world over the past two weeks, the sports headlines have been dominated with golfing news that is far from the fairways.

These headlines are hopefully set to change once the players tee it up, with a focus back on the golf itself! However, this news certainly carries an added element of intrigue to the contest to see how the LIV and PGA players interact with one another this weekend.

 

Matt Fitzpatrick

The defending champion! A player who has managed a victory in the 2023 season coupled with consistent top 15 finishes, a very consistent player this season. His driving distance continues to increase thanks to The Stack speed training system, this added distance will be an important and valuable asset this week.

However, whilst the above may be true, it seems to be a tough ask for the 2022 champion to defend his title given the form of some other headline acts.

 

Brooks Koepka

2nd at the Masters followed by a win at the PGA Championship has elevated Brooks into rare air. We are now at the stage in Brooks’ career that any additional Major win elevates him above other champions within the game of golf.

Whilst there has been a LOT of external noise within the golfing landscape in the lead up to this open, this is one player that has proven time and time again that is able to rise above and excel in these conditions.
Look for a strong performance from this Srixon staffer given he has the ability to rise in tough situations - both on and off the course.

 

Jon Rahm

The Spaniard has been voicing his grievances in the press this past week, and if there is one thing we know about Jon Rahm, it is that he can play angry as well as anyone (Look for an angry red Travis Mathew Zinna Polo)!

The reigning Masters champion plays well in all conditions and can make shots up on the field like nobody else at the moment. This week could prove as a great opportunity for Rahm to add another Major to his trophy cabinet.

 

Scottie Scheffler

The best ball striker on the planet right now? The strokes gained statistics are certainly suggesting as much! A genuine flusher of the golf ball who has lost his touch on the greens!

If Scottie is able to find a way for some putts to drop this week, look for him to be standing well and truly above the rest, he just needs to start rolling his Pro V1 again!

 

Jordan Spieth

Maybe a suprise to some is having Jordan on this list, however, given the course and the short game required, coupled with strong performances this season, Jordan poses a real threat in this tournament!

Always a player that likes to talk through every shot, look for long, extended conversations between Jordan and his caddie this week due to the unique nature of the course. Importantly, he will need to have control of his Titleist TSR2 Driver so that we can see this creativity from the fairway and around the greens flourish!

 

Cam Smith

Maybe the Aussie's best opportunity to win a US open! Why? The course setup will vary to the ‘typical’ style, with wider fairways being protected by dialled up, spicy greens. This suits Cam Smith’s game perfectly, with his largest weakness, by his own admission, being his driver.

Having the ability to hit from fairways will give Cam great scoring opportunities, however, if out of position, we know how good his ability is with his Titleist Vokey wedges.

 

Overall, this tournament shapes to be one that will be remembered, for all the right reasons, for years to come. I for one, cannot wait for the first tee shot!