Adam Hadwin Takes Early Lead at the 2022 US Open
Adam Hadwin, a Canadian golfer, made an impressive start at the 2022 US Open. Despite qualifying as an alternate, Hadwin showcased his skills by shooting a remarkable opening-round score of 66. This performance allowed him to grab a one-shot lead over the rest of the field at The Country Club in Brookline, Massachusetts.
A Surprise Contender
Although Hadwin’s early success has turned heads, he is not considered a favorite to win the tournament. As of Round 1, DraftKings Sportsbook still places him at +2500 odds. However, this doesn’t seem to faze Hadwin, who secured his spot in the US Open when Paul Casey withdrew due to back issues. In fact, Hadwin became the first Canadian since 2009, when Mike Weir achieved the same feat, to hold the lead after the first round.
Reflecting on his exceptional round, Hadwin expressed his joy and admitted that it was a unique experience to have fun at the US Open. Although not a complete unknown in the golfing world, as he won the Valspar Championship in 2017, Hadwin currently ranks 105th in the world despite having four top-10 finishes this year.
Rory McIlroy and the Pursuit of a Major Victory
Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure in the world of golf, is striving to end his major drought. DraftKings currently lists him as the +450 favorite to win the US Open. McIlroy performed admirably in the opening round, finishing at three-under-par. However, a bogey on his final hole prevented him from finishing even stronger.
In a post-round interview, McIlroy expressed his desire to secure another major victory, as it has been eight years since his last one. He emphasized his determination to maintain his momentum throughout the tournament, admitting that a good start helps alleviate the pressure of worrying about cut lines and other distractions.
Tough Competition Within Reach
While Hadwin and McIlroy stand out, there are several other contenders to watch out for in the US Open. Five players sit tied for second place at three-under, including McIlroy himself. Justin Thomas, Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa, and Matt Fitzpatrick are all within striking distance, ensuring a highly competitive tournament.
Justin Thomas, with odds of +1000, had a solid opening round, finishing at one-under-par. Rahm and Morikawa share the same odds as Thomas, showing their potential to challenge for the title. Fitzpatrick, who also stands at +1100, and Dustin Johnson, priced at +1800 after finishing the first round at two-under, are both strong candidates to watch closely. Scottie Scheffler, who finished with an even-par score, follows closely behind with odds of +1600.
Promising Contenders Emerging from Qualifying
Several players who made it through qualifying rounds have put themselves in contention for the US Open title. McIlroy finds himself tied with four others who came through the qualifiers: MJ Daffue, Joel Dahmen, David Lingmerth, and Callum Tarren. Although currently overlooked in the DraftKings odds, these golfers have proven their ability to compete at this level.
As the tournament progresses, it will be fascinating to see how Hadwin, McIlroy, and the other contenders fare. With the leaderboard tightly packed, every shot becomes crucial in the pursuit of victory in the 2022 US Open.
Conclusion
The 2022 US Open is off to an exhilarating start, with Adam Hadwin surprising the field and taking an early lead with his brilliant opening-round score of 66. While Hadwin may not be the favorite, his performance signifies his potential to compete at the highest level. Rory McIlroy, having expressed his ambitions to end his major drought, currently stands as the top contender according to DraftKings odds. However, a host of other skilled golfers, including Justin Thomas, Jon Rahm, and Collin Morikawa, are eagerly vying for the championship title. With promising talent emerging from the qualifying rounds, the competition appears fierce. As the tournament unfolds, fans and enthusiasts alike eagerly await the thrilling outcomes that the US Open has in store.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How did Adam Hadwin qualify for the US Open?
Adam Hadwin gained entry to the US Open as an alternate after Paul Casey withdrew due to back issues. Despite being a late addition, Hadwin showcased his capabilities and took an early lead in the tournament.
2. When was the last time a Canadian held the lead at the US Open?
Prior to Adam Hadwin’s achievement in 2022, Mike Weir was the last Canadian to hold the lead (or a share of it) after the first round of the US Open. Weir accomplished this feat in 2009.
3. How long has it been since Rory McIlroy won a major?
Rory McIlroy’s last major victory came eight years ago. Currently, he has his sights set on securing another major title and ending his drought at the US Open.
4. Who are the top contenders besides Adam Hadwin and Rory McIlroy?
Several players are within striking distance of the lead, including Justin Thomas, Jon Rahm, Collin Morikawa, and Matt Fitzpatrick. These talented golfers are among the favorites to clinch the US Open title.
5. Which players made it through the qualifying rounds to compete in the US Open?
In addition to Adam Hadwin, Rory McIlroy, and other top contenders, MJ Daffue, Joel Dahmen, David Lingmerth, and Callum Tarren advanced through the qualifying rounds and are now competing in the US Open.
