Pro Golfers Just Crushed Every Weekend Warrior's Dreams About Oakmont

By Lewis Barnett 11 June, 2025 6 mins read 71 Views

So I'm scrolling through golf Twitter yesterday when this video pops up that made me simultaneously laugh and want to throw my clubs in the garage forever.

The setup was simple: ask a bunch of Tour pros what score an 18-handicapper would shoot at Oakmont Country Club during this week's US Open. Their answers? Absolutely brutal.

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Bryson's Savage Math

Defending champ Bryson DeChambeau didn't even hesitate. "Ooh, probably 100," he said with this little smirk. Then came the kicker: "On the front nine."

I actually laughed out loud. My neighbor probably thinks I'm losing it.

Look, I've played with plenty of 18-handicappers (including myself on bad days), and Bryson's not wrong. Oakmont is the kind of course that makes grown men question their life choices. Scottie Scheffler literally called it "the hardest course in the world" last week, and this guy just won everything in 2024.

When Justin Thomas Agrees, You Know It's Bad

Two-time major winner Justin Thomas jumped right in: "It's got to be 110 or 120." He even questioned whether the poor soul would finish at all.

Then English pro Laurie Canter really twisted the knife. "I'm not trying to wind people up," he said (which is exactly what someone says before they wind you up). "But if they had to hit every golf shot, and they're going out with 12 balls, I don't know an 18 handicapper that finishes."

Twelve balls. TWELVE.

I'm sitting here thinking about my last round where I lost three balls on one hole at my local muni, and these guys are talking about Oakmont like it's a golf course designed by someone who genuinely hates happiness.

Justin Rose Goes Full Savage Mode

But former World No. 1 Justin Rose? He went nuclear.

"18 handicapper? Man. No ball spotter? Better bring a few dozen balls. Probably 140 – it has to be. And that's just playing conservative, bunting it in front of them. 50 yards, 50 yards, 50 yards, 50 yards."

A few dozen balls. For one round.

I did some quick math (dangerous, I know). At $4 per ball, that's like $200 just in golf balls for one round. Add greens fees, and you're looking at spending more on golf than most people spend on groceries in a month.

The Numbers Don't Lie (Unfortunately)

Here's the thing that really stings: they're probably right. In nine previous US Opens at Oakmont, only 23 players finished under par. Twenty-three! These are the best golfers on the planet, and the course still ate most of them alive.

My buddy Jake (solid 16-handicap) texted me after seeing this: "Well, there goes my dream of playing a US Open venue." Poor guy.

Even Bryson's Scared

DeChambeau, who's among the favorites to defend his title, basically admitted the course terrifies him too. "I think everybody knows this is probably the toughest golf course in the world right now," he said. "You have to hit the fairways, you have to hit greens, and you have to two-putt, worst-case scenario."

Two-putt worst case? I three-putt from 15 feet on a regular Tuesday.

Listen, I love golf as much as the next person, but watching this video was like getting a reality check from the golf gods themselves. These pros just casually destroyed every weekend golfer's confidence in about 90 seconds.

And honestly? I'm not even mad about it. Sometimes you need a reminder that professional golf and whatever it is we do on weekends are basically different sports entirely.

Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go practice my 50-yard bunts. Apparently that's my Oakmont strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a golf professional maintain their swing?

Maintaining swing technique is an important part of the routine of professional golfers. This is accomplished through practice and repetition, usually under the supervision of a golf coach. Golfers work on their mechanics at the driving area for many hours, to make sure their movement is efficient and consistent. The golfers use video analysis software to improve their swing. Additionally, many golfers perform specific strength and flexibility exercises that support the muscle memory required to maintain an effective swing.

Can cross-training be beneficial to professional golfers?

Cross-training for golfers is beneficial, as it improves athleticism. This prevents imbalances and injuries. Exercises like swimming, yoga, and cycling improve flexibility, core stability, and cardiovascular fitness. All these are useful in golf. The cross-training exercises are carefully chosen to complement the primary golf training of each player and not interfere in their game or swing.

What is course management and its importance in golfer training for professional players?

Course management is an essential aspect of training for pro golfers and it extends beyond sheer athleticism and swing technique. It is about making strategic decisions that are based on various risk-reward scenario's. A golfer will learn to evaluate factors like wind conditions, topography of the course, hazards and pin placements during training. Golfers who work with an expert caddy can create game plans to maximize their strengths and minimize their weaknesses.

Are pro golfers required to follow a strict diet as part of training?

Dietary habits are a vital part of professional golfers' training. They impact energy levels as well as recovery and health. Many golfers work with nutritionists to develop meal plans tailored to their individual needs. These plans consist of balanced portions of carbohydrates and proteins to provide energy for long days of playing and practicing while maintaining the ideal weight. The importance of hydration is not to be overlooked, as a healthy body and mind are dependent on a good supply of water.

How do pro golfers prepare for a tournament?

The preparation process for a golf tournament involves both mental and physiological aspects. Days in advance, pro golfers will arrive to familiarize themselves and their equipment with the course's layout. The golfers adjust their equipment if necessary and practice the short game extensively. They also spend time preparing a solid plan. Physically, they'll ensure they are well-rested and in peak condition, while mentally, they may engage in visualization techniques and focus on establishing a calm, positive mindset.

Can pro golfers train too much?

Golfers who are professional face the risk of being overtrained. Over-extending themselves with excessive practice can lead to physical injuries such as tendinitis or mental burnout. Listening to your body, prioritizing recovery time and maintaining a balanced schedule are essential for golfers. In general, quality over quantity is preferred, and intentional, focused work is emphasized. Rest days are strategically included in their schedules to allow the body to recuperate and to keep the mind sharp.

How does a professional golfer's training evolve as they age?

As professional golfers grow older, they typically adapt their training to match the body's changes and evolving capabilities. Emphasis may shift towards greater focus on flexibility, core stability, and joint-friendly exercises while moderating high-impact activities. Golfers with more experience can train smarter by focusing on the short game, course management and recovery. These players will likely rely more heavily on precision, strategy and play than pure power.

Statistics

Up to 90% of professional golfers incorporate some form of cross-training into their fitness regimen.
It is estimated that back pain affects up to 34% of pro golfers, making it one of the most common injuries in golf.
A survey suggests that 75% of pro golfers use a sports psychologist to aid with mental training and performance.
Statistical data indicates that around 50% of pro golfers have experienced a golf-related injury due to overtraining.
Rest days are included in 100% of the training schedules of top professional golfers to prevent burnout and injury.
On average, professional golfers dedicate 30 to 40 hours per week practicing various aspects of their game.
Studies show that consuming a balanced diet is a priority for 95% of professional golfers as part of their training protocol.
Nearly 80% of professional golfers engage in regular physical fitness programs designed specifically for golf.

External Links

How To

How to Avoid Common Golf Injuries Through Training

Professional golfers need to integrate injury prevention practices into their routines in order to avoid common injuries. This includes warming-up properly before practice rounds and tournaments, maintaining a good level of physical fitness, and focusing on techniques to reduce the strain placed on the body. Regular strength training and flexibility can help prevent muscle imbalances. You should also pay attention to your body signals and take time to recover.

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https://sportingexcitement.com/golf/djs-got-six-more-years-left-then-hes-done