With the 2025 U.S. Open just around the corner, major renovations at the iconic Oakmont Country Club are poised to alter the dynamics of the championship considerably. Under the guidance of esteemed architect Gil Hanse, one significant change has been made to the 10th hole, introducing an intriguing new challenge for competitors. This recent modification has the potential to give certain players a notable advantage, particularly former champion Bryson DeChambeau.
Historically, the 10th hole at Oakmont allowed players to unleash their drivers or fairway woods, confidently letting the ball roll downhill toward the green. However, with the addition of a ravine situated approximately 320 yards from the tee, this straightforward strategy has transformed into a tactical dilemma. As highlighted by Golf Digest’s Jamie Kennedy, players must now carefully consider their options: lay up safely short of the ravine or take the aggressive route and attempt to carry it.
As players gear up for this prestigious event, many have adopted a conservative approach to their strategy on the 10th hole. For instance, on a recent practice round, Scottie Scheffler opted to use a fairway wood, landing just short of the ravine at about 300 yards. This forced him into a tricky position where he missed the fairway right and faced the prospect of hitting a 7-iron into the green—a scenario no player wishes to encounter.
The introduction of this ravine has fundamentally altered how players approach the hole. Defending champion Bryson DeChambeau, known for his prodigious driving distance, has already taken full advantage of this new setup. In a recent video posted to his YouTube channel, he showcased a daring attempt to carry the ravine, succeeding even in less-than-ideal morning conditions. Although his drive didn’t land in the fairway, it left him with just 115 yards to the hole, culminating in a birdie after a well-placed sand wedge.
The reactions to DeChambeau’s audacity were palpable among his peers. Justin Thomas, during a press conference, expressed genuine disbelief, stating, “I didn’t even know that was possible.” Such comments highlight the uniqueness of DeChambeau’s talent in navigating the challenges presented by the new hole configuration.
In response to inquiries about whether he would risk carrying the ravine or play conservatively with a three-wood, Xander Schauffele quickly acknowledged DeChambeau’s unique capabilities. “Oh, the ravine? Oh, no, no. I mean, I think Bryson’s probably the only person that would think twice about carrying it,” Schauffele remarked. His response reveals the distinctive playing style that has come to define DeChambeau, setting him apart from his contemporaries.
As the 2025 U.S. Open approaches, the implications of these renovations are significant. This new strategic layer on an already challenging course underscores the evolving nature of golf—where yardages and conditions can drastically influence player decisions. With the unique characteristics of the 10th hole now on display, spectators and competitors alike will keenly observe how the tournament unfolds and how choices at this pivotal hole may affect the overall outcome.
For fans and analysts, the narrative surrounding the championship is tantalizing. The interplay between strategy, skill, and course design could very well shape the unfolding drama of the U.S. Open. As these top-tier professionals navigate the complex terrain of Oakmont, the impact of the newly introduced ravine will undoubtedly be a focal point this week.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on June 10, 2025, capturing the anticipation and excitement surrounding one of the sport’s most esteemed events.
