Oakmont Country Club

Oakmont Country Club, located in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, stands as a true test of golf with its notoriously difficult layout. Designed by Henry Fownes in 1903, the course features 200 deep bunkers, hard and slick greens, and tight fairways, all set against the Allegheny River's backdrop. Oakmont’s architectural brilliance is most evident in its merciless greens, which are some of the fastest and most challenging in the game. The Church Pews bunker, between the 3rd and 4th holes, is one of the most iconic hazards in golf, spanning 100 yards and containing twelve turf-covered ridges.

Among its notable holes, the par-4 1st and the long par-5 12th are particularly punishing, with the former playing a pivotal role in setting the tone for the rounds. The course’s demanding nature and impeccable conditioning have made it a frequent host for major tournaments, including the U.S. Open, which it has hosted a record nine times, most recently in 2016. Oakmont’s repeated selection for major championships speaks to its rigor and the esteem in which it is held, securing its place as a top 100 course globally. This reputation is built on a century-long tradition of uncompromising golf that challenges the world’s best players.