SDSU alum J.J. Spaun wins first major at 2025 U.S. Open
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J. J. Spaun, an SDSU alum, lifts the trophy after winning the 2025 U.S. Open. Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images
San Diego State University alum J.J. Spaun won the 125th U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania on Sunday.
Why it matters: He clinched his first major championship title in the rain with a 64-foot birdie on the 18th hole, sinking the longest putt made by anyone in the tournament.
State of play: Spaun, a 34-year-old Los Angeles native, started the final round with bogeys in five of his first six holes.
- After a rain delay where groundskeepers squeegeed the fairway, Spaun made back-to-back birdies at the last two holes to finish at 1-under par and secure the two-shot victory.
- He was the only golfer to finish under-par through 72 holes.
What he's saying: "I never thought I'd be here holding this trophy," Spaun said, per the Athletic. "I always had aspirations and dreams. A few months ago I never knew what my ceiling was."
- "I'm proud that I was resilient and pushed through a lot of things. Just trying to be the best golfer I can be."
Fun fact: A former Aztec has now won three of the last six majors, with Xander Schauffele claiming two titles last year.
The intrigue: In a special Father's Day moment, a TV camera captured Spaun's wife Melody with their two daughters say "Daddy won!" after watching him sink the final putt, The Athletic reported.
Zoom out: Robert MacIntyre took second at 1-over par.
- None of the big names like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau were contenders down the final stretch.
Flashback: This win was redemption for Spaun, who lost a dramatic three-hole playoff against McIlroy at the Players Championship in March.
- Spaun's last PGA Tour win was at the 2022 Valero Texas Open.
Follow the money: Spaun will take home the $4.3 million winner's check from the U.S. Open's $21.5 million purse.
