It took some heroics for Bryson DeChambeau to squeeze out a U.S. Open win — two shots in particular.
And, of course, some help from Rory McIlroy’s two missed putts — one from within less than three feet — across the final three holes of the tournament.
DeChambeau won his second U.S. Open in five years despite putting himself into a hole early while tied with McIlroy for first place at 6-under for the tournament.
On the 18th hole, DeChambeau’s first shot off the tee was driven way left of the fairway and into some short native grass beside the root of a tree.
He took several practice swings, judging how to manage his backswing right in front of unlucky placed tree branch.
On the shot to follow, he gained ground but still fell short after going directly into the bunker.
DeChambeau then hit what he later referred to as, “Probably the best shot of my life,” chipping the ball from 55 feet out onto the green and within five feet of the hole, setting up a putt that ultimately gave him the U.S. Open title.
McIlroy bogeyed on holes No. 15, 16, and 18, opening the door for DeChambeau’s heroics to serve as enough to win the tournament.
The win gives DeChambeau, who is now on the LIV Golf Tour, his second major championship.
This year, he also finished second in the PGA Championship.
For McIlroy, the drought continues.
He still has four major championships, but none since 2014.