“I think one more major would really go a long way in fulfilling myself,” Adam Scott had said earlier in the week, and for a moment, it looked like Oakmont might finally deliver that elusive second.
The 44-year-old Australian, who last lifted a major trophy at the 2013 Masters, surged into contention after Round 2 and followed it up with a brilliant 67 on Saturday as he sat just one shot off the lead before the final round.
But Sunday turned into a nightmare at the 125th U.S. Open. Battling relentless rain and a waterlogged course, Scott carded 9-over 79, tumbling from T2 to T12 and watching his hopes of a second major slip away.
“It was borderline unplayable… the water was so close to the surface. Like the shot I hit on 11—it’s bizarre. I just don’t know. It was like an aquaplane off the ground,” Scott said post-round.
Yet, in the face of heartbreak, Scott’s response was pure class. On Monday, he took to Instagram to share his gratitude:
“Today wasn’t my day but I am still so grateful for everything this game continues to give me. Thank you @usga for hosting another incredible and historic championship. Onward,” he posted over his Insgram profile.
His sportsmanship extended beyond social media.
In the locker room, Scott embraced newly crowned U.S. Open champion J.J. Spaun, offering heartfelt congratulations right after his win.
The moment gained even more meaning when the U.S. Open’s Instagram account resurfaced a 2020 tweet from Spaun that read, “My new swing thought… ‘Adam Scott’.”
The official U. S. Open handle captioned it: “Safe to say it worked, J.J!”
Scott acknowledged the post with a nod, proving that even in defeat, he remains a role model.
His final round may have unraveled, but his legacy as one of golf’s classiest competitors only grew stronger. This was Scott’s 96th consecutive major appearance, second only to the Golden Bear, Jack Nicklaus.
While the trophy eluded him, his grace under pressure didn’t go unnoticed.
For now, the grind continues. Scott will tee it up next at the Travelers Championship from June 19–22 at TPC River Highlands.
This will be the PGA Tour’s final signature event of the season with $20 million on the line.
He’s also confirmed for the Open Championship at Royal Portrush, set for July 17–20, where redemption may still await.
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