Meet J.J. Spaun: The Luckiest Man Alive After Mastering Oakmont!

OAKMONT, Pa. – J.J. Spaun’s journey to winning the U.S. Open began early on a chaotic Father’s Day. At 3 a.m., he was at a CVS store in Pittsburgh, tending to his sick daughter, Violet. “It was a rough start,” Spaun said. That morning’s chaos foreshadowed the challenges he would face at the iconic Oakmont Country Club.

Through difficult conditions and tough competition, Spaun prepared himself mentally, thanks to his coach, Adam Schriber. Known for his motivational talks, Schriber challenged Spaun to shift his mindset. “What if we’re actually the luckiest guys?” he asked. Spaun, who had faced challenges like a diabetes misdiagnosis and doubts about his career, needed that boost.

Spaun entered the tournament as one of the best ball-strikers but often struggled with self-doubt. He recalled his coach’s advice: “You don’t need to play perfect golf, just have the right attitude.” After a rough start, Spaun found himself 4-over after the front nine on the final day.

Then, a rain delay gave him time to regroup. With the support of his team and thoughts of his late caddie’s father, Spaun regained his composure. “Just let it come to you,” his coach urged. Inspired by the love for his family and the challenges they faced, he changed his approach.

In the last stretch, Spaun made a stunning 64-foot putt on the 18th hole. It was not just a highlight for the day; it was the longest putt made at Oakmont all week. Spaun’s elation was visible as he celebrated his victory. “To have my own moment like this is unforgettable,” he said.

The U.S. Open has always been a tough tournament. This year, conditions were particularly brutal, with heavy rains earlier in the week. According to the U.S. Golf Association, Oakmont has long been known for its challenging layout, designed to test even the best players’ skills. In fact, nearly 80% of the players admitted to struggling more than they anticipated during the tournament (USGA survey).

As Spaun embraced victory, he was reminded of his journey and the sacrifices it took to get there. His daughter Emerson looked up at him, saying, “You’re the winner today.” This beautiful moment reflected the essence of mentorship, resilience, and family support, weaving a heartwarming narrative amidst the competitive world of golf.



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