Passing of the Torch – The U.S. Open Trophy has arrived at Oakmont Country Club

Tom Poljak and Tom Beeler had the privilege of interviewing John Lynch, President of Oakmont Country Club, and Tim Lloyd, Senior Director of the U.S. Open Championship from the USGA. On June 7th, the Tom & Tom Golf Podcast witnessed the symbolic passing of the torch from Pinehurst to Oakmont and conducted these insightful interviews.

Oakmont Country Club will host the U.S. Open for a record 10th time from June 12th to June 15th, 2025. As the event approaches, volunteers are already on a waiting list, and tickets are selling rapidly. The last U.S. Open held at Oakmont was in 2016.

Significant renovations have been undertaken over the past year to restore the course to its original design by William C. Fownes in 1903. Renowned golf course architect Gil Hanse, known as the “Open Doctor,” led these efforts. “The membership is ecstatic with the renovations done by Gil. He is the most pleasant guy in the world to work with, and he is an artist. It’s beautifully done and seamless; you really can’t tell that we did any work on our golf course,” said John Lynch.

John Lynch

The course reopened in April this year, with ongoing construction of a new practice facility, including a two-sided golf range. Renovations include a remarkable 24,000 square feet of additional greens for more pin placements. Other changes involve adjustments to fairways and bunkers, and the exciting addition of two more rows to the famous Church Pews on the third hole.

The partnership between Oakmont and the USGA is strong, focusing on making thoughtful changes to challenge players. “We are going to have five inches of rough at Oakmont from fairway edge to the green for the Open. We are really looking forward to the test that Oakmont is going to provide, and the rough is one of the key factors,” Lynch added.

Oakmont is one of three clubs designated by the USGA as “anchor sites” for future U.S. Opens, along with Pinehurst and Pebble Beach. Future U.S. Open dates at Oakmont are set for 2033, 2042, and 2049, with the U.S. Women’s Open scheduled for 2028 and 2038. Additionally, Oakmont will host the Walker Cup in 2032 and the U.S. Women’s Amateur in 2046.

There is a palpable excitement and pride among locals for the upcoming championships. The USGA and Oakmont’s membership are committed to ensuring the best possible experience for everyone attending the event. “We have productive and collaborative conversations. It’s truly a completely transparent discussion about what’s best for us and what’s best for them, and that is why Oakmont is one of our anchor sites,” said Tim Lloyd.

Tim Lloyd