Golf is a game of precision, strategy, and mental fortitude. It requires a high level of skill and concentration to navigate through the challenges of each course. And when it comes to major championships, the stakes are even higher. These tournaments bring together the best golfers in the world, competing for the ultimate glory and recognition. And what better way to showcase your dominance than by achieving the lowest score in a major championship?
The US Open, one of the four major championships in golf, has seen some incredible displays of skill and determination over the years. And among those, the lowest winning scores stand out as the ultimate flex for golfers. It is a testament to their ability to conquer the course and seize every scoring opportunity. Let’s take a look at the top five lowest winning scores in the history of the US Open.
1. Rory McIlroy – 268 (-16), 2011 US Open
At just 22 years old, Rory McIlroy made history at the 2011 US Open held at Congressional Country Club. He not only won his first major championship but also set a new record for the lowest winning score. McIlroy’s four-day total of 268 was a whopping 16-under par, breaking the previous record of 272 set by Tiger Woods in 2000. McIlroy dominated the field, finishing eight strokes ahead of the runner-up Jason Day. His performance was a display of sheer brilliance, making him the youngest winner of the US Open since Bobby Jones in 1923.
2. Brooks Koepka – 272 (-16), 2017 US Open
Brooks Koepka’s name has become synonymous with the US Open in recent years. He has won the tournament back-to-back in 2017 and 2018, becoming the first player in 29 years to achieve this feat. Koepka’s first victory at the 2017 US Open was a record-breaking one, as he tied the lowest winning score set by McIlroy in 2011. The tournament, held at Erin Hills, saw Koepka dominate the field with his power and precision, finishing four shots ahead of the runner-up, Brian Harman. Koepka’s performance proved that he was a force to be reckoned with in major championships.
3. Tiger Woods – 272 (-12), 2000 US Open
Tiger Woods is undoubtedly one of the greatest golfers of all time, and his record at the US Open is a testament to that. In the year 2000, Woods put on a show at Pebble Beach Golf Links, finishing with a score of 272, tying the record set by McIlroy and Koepka. Woods’ performance was nothing short of perfection, as he finished with the lowest score in relation to par in the history of the US Open. He dominated the field, winning by a record-breaking 15 strokes, solidifying his status as a golfing legend.
4. Martin Kaymer – 271 (-9), 2014 US Open
Germany’s Martin Kaymer made history at the 2014 US Open held at Pinehurst Resort. He not only became the first German to win the tournament but also set a new record for the lowest winning score at Pinehurst. Kaymer started the tournament with a bang, shooting a record-breaking 65 on the first day. He continued his dominance throughout the tournament, finishing with a nine-under par total of 271. Kaymer’s performance was a masterclass in precision and control, as he finished eight shots ahead of the runner-up, Rickie Fowler.
5. Jack Nicklaus – 272 (-8), 1980 US Open
Jack Nicklaus, also known as the Golden Bear, is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time. And his record at the US Open speaks for itself. In 1980, at the age of 40, Nicklaus won his fourth US Open at Baltusrol Golf Club. His performance was nothing short of remarkable, as he finished with a score of 272, tying the record set by Woods in 2000. Nicklaus’ victory at the 1980 US Open was his 16th major championship win, cementing his place in golfing history.
In conclusion, these five golfers have shown what it takes to achieve the lowest winning score in a major championship. Their performances not only showcase their exceptional skill but also
