Masters champion Rory McIlroy will begin his 2025 US Open campaign alongside European Ryder Cup teammates Justin Rose and Shane Lowry in a high-profile grouping for the first two rounds at Oakmont Country Club.
The trio is scheduled to start Round 1 from the 10th hole at 12:40 BST on Thursday, June 12, before switching to the first hole at 18:25 BST on Friday for Round 2.
A Star-Studded Grouping
This marquee grouping brings together three of Europe’s top golfers, all with major championship pedigree:
- Rory McIlroy (2025 Masters Champion, 2011 US Open winner)
- Justin Rose (2013 US Open winner)
- Shane Lowry (2019 Open Champion)
McIlroy, who ended his 10-year major drought by winning the Masters in April, will look to add a second US Open title to his resume. His victory at Augusta National came after a thrilling playoff against Rose, adding another layer of intrigue to this pairing.
Key Storylines to Watch
- McIlroy’s Quest for a Fifth Major
- After completing the Career Grand Slam at the Masters, McIlroy will aim to continue his dominant form.
- His 2011 US Open win at Congressional remains one of the most dominant performances in tournament history.
- Justin Rose’s Redemption Arc
- Rose, who lost to McIlroy in the Masters playoff, will be eager to claim his second US Open title.
- The Englishman has been in solid form and thrives on tough courses like Oakmont.
- Shane Lowry’s Major Pedigree
- The Irishman is a proven contender in majors, particularly on challenging layouts.
- His grinding style could suit Oakmont’s notoriously difficult conditions.
Other Notable Groupings
While McIlroy’s group will draw significant attention, other key pairings include:
Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa & Viktor Hovland
- Tee Times:
- Thursday: 18:25 BST (1st hole)
- Friday: 12:40 BST (10th hole)
- Scheffler, the world No. 1 and reigning PGA Championship winner, leads a stacked group featuring two-time major winner Morikawa and Hovland, a perennial major contender.
Bryson DeChambeau & Xander Schauffele
- Tee Times:
- Thursday: 12:29 BST (1st hole)
- Defending champion DeChambeau will play alongside 2024 Open winner Schauffele in a battle of power vs. precision.
Matt Fitzpatrick’s Group
- The 2022 US Open winner tees off immediately after DeChambeau at 12:40 BST (Thursday, 1st hole).
Oakmont’s Challenge
Oakmont Country Club, known for its brutal rough, lightning-fast greens, and penal bunkers, is one of the toughest tests in golf. Key factors to watch:
- Accuracy over distance: Players must find fairways to avoid thick rough.
- Greenside precision: Up-and-downs will be crucial with Oakmont’s infamous slopes.
- Mental toughness: The course has broken many contenders in past US Opens.
Predictions & Expectations
- McIlroy enters as one of the favorites, given his current form and major momentum.
- Scheffler remains the man to beat, with his all-around consistency.
- Dark Horse Picks:
- Shane Lowry (if his short game holds up)
- Viktor Hovland (if he can handle Oakmont’s greens)
How to Watch
- UK: Sky Sports Golf (Coverage starts at 12:00 BST Thursday)
- US: NBC, Peacock, USA Network
- Streaming: ESPN+, PGA Tour Live
Final Thoughts
The 2025 US Open promises drama, with McIlroy, Rose, and Lowry forming a must-watch group. Can McIlroy secure back-to-back majors? Will Scheffler continue his dominance? Or will a dark horse emerge at Oakmont?
Who do you think will lift the trophy? Let us know in the comments!
