
PINEHURST, N.C. — The U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 got off to a challenging start for Michael McGowan, who hit the opening tee shot. Nerves and hometown pressure led to a double bogey on the first hole, showcasing the demanding nature of the course.
Pinehurst No. 2, hosting its fourth U.S. Open since 1999, has a reputation for testing even the best golfers. With only four players finishing under par in the previous three U.S. Opens, the course's difficulty is well-documented.