Fun Facts About the US Open

The US Open is more than just birdies and bogeys – it's a storied championship steeped in history and surprising twists. Here are some interesting facts to spice up your US Open viewing experience:

• Burning Ambition (Literally): The original US Open trophy met a fiery demise in 1946. Winner Lloyd Mangrum took it home to show off, but sadly, his clubhouse burned down, taking the trophy with it. The current trophy, thankfully, has avoided such a dramatic fate.
• A (Very) Short Day at the Open: The first US Open in 1895 was a one-day affair, with players tackling just 36 holes. Twenty-one-year-old Horace Rawlins emerged victorious, proving stamina wasn't the only key to success back then.
• International Domination (…Then Not So Much): Believe it or not, international players won the first 16 US Opens! It wasn't until 1911 that American John McDermott finally broke the streak. Since then, the pendulum has swung back, with American golfers claiming the majority of titles.
• The Par-6 Mystery: The US Open prides itself on challenging courses, but in 1912, things got a little extreme. The Country Club of Buffalo hosted the tournament and featured the only par-6 hole in US Open history! Thankfully, such lengthy single holes haven't been seen since.
• Big Money, Big Stage: The US Open boasts the highest purse among the men's majors, reflecting its prestige and the pressure players face. The purse for the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 is $21.5 million, a $1.5 million increase from last year. In addition, the winner will take home $4.3 million, up from $4 million in 2023.
• Four Wins: This is the record for most US Open victories. The golfers who achieved this feat are: Willie Anderson (1901, 1903, 1904, 1905) - Notably, Anderson holds the record for most consecutive wins with three (1903-1905). Bobby Jones (1923, 1925, 1929, 1930), Ben Hogan (1948, 1950, 1951, 1953) and Jack Nicklaus (1962, 1967, 1972, 1980)

So, when you tune in to the US Open, remember there's more to the story than just the leaderboard. From fiery mishaps to international dominance, the US Open offers a rich tapestry of history and surprising facts that add another layer of enjoyment to this iconic championship.

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